The nurse is assessing a client admitted to the hospital for congestive heart failure (CHF) and notes 1+ pitting edema of the left arm, as well as bilateral 1+ pitting edema in the client's ankles. The client's history indicates that the client has had a myocardial infarction and a left mastectomy. Which is the most probable cause of the edema in the client's left arm?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's history of left mastectomy suggests that the lymphatic drainage in the left arm may be impaired, leading to edema. Bilateral ankle edema is a common symptom in clients with CHF, indicating right-sided heart failure. Noncompliance with medications or excessive sodium intake may contribute to fluid retention, but these are not the most probable causes for the edema in the left arm.

The Nurse Is Assessing a Client Admitted to the Hospital