Which finding is the priority for a nurse collecting data from a recently discharged client after deep-vein thrombosis treatment?

The priority finding in this scenario is the report of chest pain. After treatment for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), there is a significant concern about the potential development of a complication known as a pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE occurs when a blood clot from the deep veins travels to the lungs, which can lead to serious respiratory distress and even be life-threatening.

When a patient who has had DVT reports chest pain, it raises immediate concern for a embolic event that could be affecting the heart or lungs. This symptom requires prompt assessment and potentially immediate intervention to ensure the safety of the client, making it the top priority for the nurse.

While other findings such as musculoskeletal pain, swelling in the leg, and fatigue may also be relevant and warrant monitoring, they do not carry the same immediate risk of life-threatening complications as chest pain does in this context. Hence, the report of chest pain should be the focus of nursing assessment and intervention following DVT treatment.