When monitoring a client with abruptio placentae for DIC, which finding is least likely associated with this condition?

In the context of abruptio placentae and the complications associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), the least likely finding is swelling of the calf of one leg. Abruptio placentae, characterized by the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, can lead to significant internal bleeding and changes in coagulation status.

In cases of DIC, manifestations often include bleeding tendencies due to clotting factor consumption. This translates to clinical signs such as rapid heart rate, which occurs due to a compensatory response to blood loss, and bleeding from gums or oozing from intravenous sites, both of which are indicators of impaired coagulation and increased bleeding risk.

Swelling of the calf, while it may indicate thrombosis or other vascular complications, is not a typical finding associated with DIC in the context of abruptio placentae. Such swelling is more commonly linked to conditions like deep vein thrombosis, which does not directly relate to the coagulation disturbances characteristic of DIC. Thus, the presence of the other findings is more consistent with the complications of DIC arising from abruptio placentae.