Which of the following findings would alert the nurse to a potential postoperative complication in a surgical patient?

A change in level of consciousness is a critical finding that can indicate a potential postoperative complication such as hypoxia, neurological impairment, or even an adverse reaction to anesthesia. In the context of postoperative care, the nurse is vigilant for any signs of deterioration in the patient's condition. An altered level of consciousness may suggest issues with oxygenation, increased intracranial pressure, or other significant complications that can arise after surgery.

Maintaining stable vital signs is crucial, and while increased pain at the incision site is not uncommon after surgery, it doesn't necessarily indicate a severe complication on its own. Decreased appetite can also occur as a temporary response to surgery and anesthesia, but it is not as immediate a concern as a change in a patient's consciousness. Monitoring a patient's cognitive status and responsiveness is vital for assessing their overall well-being and detecting complications early, which makes this finding particularly critical.