A 65-year-old patient with congestive heart failure has been on diuretic therapy for the past two weeks. During a follow-up appointment, which of the following findings would indicate that the diuretic therapy is effective?

Rationale: A. This would indicate possible fluid retention or worsening heart function, not effective diuretic therapy. Effective diuretics usually help reduce fluid overload, which may lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients. B. Rapid weight gain is a sign of fluid retention, which suggests diuretic therapy is not effective or the patient’s heart failure is worsening. C. These findings indicate that excess fluid is being successfully removed from the body. Decreased swelling in the extremities and improved respiratory status reflect effective diuresis and improved cardiac function, which is the goal of therapy. D. While these can occur due to electrolyte imbalances caused by diuretics, they are adverse effects rather than indicators of effectiveness.