What serious problem may be indicated by an increasing abdominal girth in a postoperative client who had a bypass graft for an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

An increasing abdominal girth in a postoperative client who has undergone a bypass graft for an abdominal aortic aneurysm may indicate graft leakage. This symptom suggests that fluid is accumulating within the abdominal cavity, which can occur if the graft has become compromised. A leak in the graft can allow blood or other fluids to escape from the vascular system into surrounding tissues or cavities, leading to an increase in abdominal girth. This condition requires immediate medical attention, as it may lead to severe complications, including hemorrhage or shock.

While other issues such as infection, hematoma formation, and fluid overload can cause abdominal swelling, they are less directly linked to the specific surgical context of a graft procedure. Graft leakage represents a more critical and immediate concern that stems from postoperative risks related to vascular surgery.