Physiological Integrity NCLEX RN Related

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A client is experiencing pulmonary edema as an exacerbation of chronic left-sided heart failure. The nurse should assess the client for what manifestation?

  • A. Weight loss
  • B. Bilateral crackles
  • C. Distended neck veins
  • D. Peripheral pitting edema
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The client with pulmonary edema presents primarily with symptoms that are respiratory in nature because the blood flow is stagnant in the lungs, which lie behind the left side of the heart from a circulatory standpoint. The client would experience weight gain from fluid retention, not weight loss. Distended neck veins and peripheral pitting edema are classic signs of right-sided heart failure.