When assessing for edema, what is the nurse primarily looking for?

The assessment of edema primarily focuses on the swelling and its pitting characteristics because these are key indicators of fluid retention in the tissues. When a nurse examines a patient for edema, they typically check for areas of swelling, which may indicate an accumulation of excess interstitial fluid. The assessment includes observing whether the swelling is pitting or non-pitting.

Pitting edema occurs when pressure is applied to the swollen area, and an indentation remains for some time after the pressure is released. This type of edema is often associated with conditions such as heart failure or renal issues, where fluid balance is disrupted. Non-pitting edema does not leave an indentation and may be associated with different conditions, such as lymphatic obstruction.

By focusing on swelling and the characteristics of pitting, nurses can gather important information about the underlying health issues, enabling them to make informed clinical decisions and interventions. Other options—like bruising, mobility issues, or skin temperature—do not provide the specific information needed to assess fluid overload or retention in the context of edema.