A client is receiving IV fluids at 150 mL/hr. Which of the following findings indicates that the client is experiencing fluid overload?
A.
Oliguria
B.
Bradycardia
C.
Dyspnea
D.
Poor skin turgor
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Dyspnea.
Explanation:
Fluid overload occurs when there is an excessive amount of fluid in the body’s tissues and bloodstream. This can lead to various symptoms and complications, including the following:
- Dyspnea (Shortness of Breath): Dyspnea is a common sign of fluid overload. When the body retains too much fluid, it can accumulate in the lungs, leading to pulmonary edema. This condition impairs the lungs’ ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide effectively, resulting in difficulty breathing. Fluid overload increases the pressure in the pulmonary capillaries, forcing fluid into the alveoli and causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, crackles in the lungs, and reduced oxygen saturation levels.
- Oliguria: Oliguria refers to a reduced urine output, which could indicate fluid retention or kidney dysfunction. While oliguria can be associated with fluid overload, it is not as directly indicative of it as dyspnea. Oliguria can be caused by a variety of conditions, including dehydration, renal impairment, or other factors unrelated to fluid overload.
- Bradycardia: Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with fluid overload. Instead, fluid overload more commonly leads to tachycardia (an increased heart rate) as the body attempts to compensate for the increased blood volume and pressure. Bradycardia might suggest different issues, such as electrolyte imbalances or other cardiac conditions.
- Poor Skin Turgor: Poor skin turgor, or decreased skin elasticity, is more commonly a sign of dehydration rather than fluid overload. In fluid overload, skin turgor would typically be normal or even show signs of edema (swelling) rather than poor turgor.
In summary, dyspnea is the most direct indicator of fluid overload among the options provided, as it reflects the impact of excess fluid on pulmonary function.