Edema

Edema is excess fluid in the interstitial tissues, often reflecting fluid overload, heart failure, or low albumin. Daily weight is the most accurate measure of fluid status — a 1 kg change is roughly 1 L of fluid — so weigh the client at the same time, on the same scale, in similar clothing each day for a reliable trend. Elevate dependent limbs, monitor for pitting and respiratory effects of fluid shifts, and report rapid weight gain to the provider.