Which symptom might indicate transplant rejection in a client following a heart transplant?

Shortness of breath is a significant symptom that can indicate transplant rejection, especially in a client who has recently undergone a heart transplant. Following such a procedure, the body may react to the new organ as if it were a foreign object, leading to immune-mediated rejection. This process can cause inflammation, fluid buildup, or other issues that directly impact the heart's ability to function effectively. As a result, the client may experience increased difficulty in breathing due to the heart struggling to maintain adequate blood supply to the lungs and other organs. Recognizing shortness of breath as a potential sign of rejection is crucial for timely intervention and management to safeguard the transplant and the patient's overall health.

The other symptoms listed may be related to various conditions or side effects of medications but do not specifically signal transplant rejection. An increased appetite can occur for various reasons, including recovery from surgery or introduction of new medications that may stimulate hunger. Reduced urination might indicate dehydration or other issues but is not a classic sign of heart transplant rejection. Weight gain can result from fluid retention, medication side effects, or dietary changes, and while it needs monitoring, it is nonspecific compared to the critical nature of shortness of breath as an indicator of rejection.