During a physical assessment, which finding would indicate a complication in a client with cirrhosis?

Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the sclera of the eyes, which occurs due to an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. In patients with cirrhosis, jaundice indicates a complication related to the liver's inability to properly metabolize and excrete bilirubin. This can signify worsening liver function and the progression of liver disease.

The presence of jaundice serves as a clinical marker of significant liver dysfunction that can lead to more severe complications, such as liver failure or the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. It reflects the liver's compromised ability to perform its roles, including the processing of bile and bilirubin, and is a significant concern in managing patients with cirrhosis.

Other findings, such as clear lung sounds or a palpable liver edge, may be considered normal or less indicative of acute complications arising from cirrhosis. Dry, flaky skin can occur due to various reasons, but it is not a direct indication of a liver-related complication in this context. Thus, jaundice stands out as a vital and concerning sign in the assessment of a patient with cirrhosis.