Final answer:
Restlessness and changes in mentation after a total hip replacement may indicate a serious complication like a blood clot, which can lead to a pulmonary embolism, as a nurse would be aware. Other potential complications include pneumonia, pressure sore infections, and urinary tract infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The restlessness and changes in mentation a client may experience after a total hip replacement could indicate a few potential complications. A nurse might consider if the symptoms are related to a blood clot, known as thrombophlebitis or deep vein thrombosis, which can lead to a pulmonary embolism. Given that hip surgery and related immobility can result in blood clot formation, this is a critical complication to rule out. Other possibilities include pneumonia, pressure ulcers leading to infection, or urinary tract infections from catheterization, all of which could have an impact on the patient's cognitive status and alertness.