What significant change should a nurse monitor in a client after a cardiac catheterization?

After a cardiac catheterization, monitoring urine output is significant because it can indicate renal perfusion and the adequacy of cardiac output. A marked increase in urine output may suggest that the kidneys are receiving adequate blood flow, which is essential after a procedure that can affect a patient’s hemodynamic status.

During and after cardiac catheterization, the heart's function and the overall blood circulation can be impacted. If the heart is functioning properly post-procedure, it typically leads to improved renal perfusion and thus an increase in urine output. This is a positive sign indicating that the body's systems are responding well after the intervention.

In contrast, the other options listed (marked increase in respiratory rate, marked decrease in heart rate, and marked decrease in blood pressure) can signify complications or adverse effects that require immediate attention. For example, an increase in respiratory rate might indicate respiratory distress, while a decrease in heart rate or blood pressure could suggest bradycardia or hypotension, respectively. Each of these would typically be concerning findings, but an increase in urine output would suggest a favorable recovery process in this scenario.