Which outcome should the nurse evaluate after administering aspirin to a client with pneumonia?

In the context of administering aspirin to a client with pneumonia, the primary therapeutic goal includes alleviating pain and discomfort, particularly pain associated with pleuritic breathing. Aspirin is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which not only reduces inflammation but also acts as an analgesic (pain reliever). Therefore, a decrease in pain when breathing is an expected and desirable outcome after aspirin administration, as it can help improve the client's overall comfort and allow for better respiratory mechanics.

While other options might seem relevant, they serve different purposes in health care assessments. Prolonged clotting time is primarily associated with anticoagulant medications and is not a direct effect of aspirin concerning pneumonia treatment. Aspirin does have an effect on body temperature regulation due to its antipyretic properties, but the most immediate and relevant outcome in this scenario involves the reduction of pain during respiration. Lastly, the respiratory rate can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the severity of pneumonia or pain, but it is not a direct indicator of aspirin's effect. Thus, the focus on decreased pain aligns perfectly with the intended use of aspirin for this client.