Choice A reason:

Pleural effusion is fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity (around the lungs), and it can be associated with ascites, but it is not the specific complication described in the scenario.

Choice B reason:

Pneumonia is a lung infection and is not directly related to the difficulty breathing and increased respiratory rate described in the client with ascites.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Pulmonary edema is a potential complication of ascites in which excess fluid accumulates in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and an increased respiratory rate.

Choice D reason:

Atelectasis is the collapse of part or all of a lung, and while it can be associated with difficulty breathing, it is not directly related to ascites.