When performing an assessment of a 65-year-old man with a history of hypertension and coronary artery disease, the nurse notices bilateral pitting edema in the lower legs. The skin is puffy and tight but of normal colour. There is no increased redness or tenderness, and the peripheral pulses are equal and strong. In this situation, which of the following is the most likely cause of the edema?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bilateral edema or edema that is generalized over the entire body is caused by a central problem such as heart failure or kidney failure.Unilateral edema usually has a local or peripheral cause.

When Performing an Assessment of a 65-Year-Old Man with a History