A postoperative patient is receiving IV fluids. Which assessment finding would indicate fluid overload?
- A) Decreased urine output
- B) Weight loss since admission
- C) Dry mucous membranes
- D) Peripheral edema ✓
In the context of a postoperative patient receiving intravenous (IV) fluids, it is crucial to monitor for signs of fluid overload. Fluid overload occurs when there is an excess of fluid in the body, which can lead to various complications, particularly in patients who may have compromised cardiac or renal function.
Understanding the Assessment Findings
- Decreased Urine Output (A): While decreased urine output can indicate fluid overload, it can also be a sign of renal impairment or inadequate perfusion. Therefore, this finding alone is not definitive for fluid overload.
- Weight Loss Since Admission (B): Weight loss typically suggests dehydration or inadequate fluid intake rather than fluid overload. In fact, weight gain would be more indicative of fluid retention and overload.
- Dry Mucous Membranes (C): Dry mucous membranes are commonly associated with dehydration rather than fluid overload. This finding indicates that the patient may not be receiving enough fluids or has lost fluids through other means.
- Peripheral Edema (D): Peripheral edema refers to swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues, particularly in the extremities. This is a classic sign of fluid overload and indicates that the body is retaining more fluid than it should.
Conclusion
Based on the assessment findings listed above, the most indicative sign of fluid overload in a postoperative patient receiving IV fluids is:
D) Peripheral edema
This finding directly correlates with an excess accumulation of fluids in the interstitial spaces, which is characteristic of fluid overload conditions.
