Final answer:
Nurses will monitor a client with saltwater aspiration for symptoms of pulmonary edema, which is fluid accumulation in the lungs due to the hypertonic nature of saltwater.
Step-by-step explanation:
After a near-drowning accident with saltwater aspiration, nurses will observe the client for symptoms of pulmonary edema. This condition is a result of fluid accumulation in the lungs, which can occur after the inhalation of saltwater. Saltwater being hypertonic to the blood and tissues of the lungs can draw fluid into the alveoli, leading to pulmonary edema. This fluid accumulation impairs oxygen exchange and can lead to respiratory distress and other severe complications. It is crucial to monitor the client for signs such as difficulty breathing, coughing up blood or frothy sputum, and extreme fatigue, as these could be indicative of pulmonary edema development.