A nurse is assessing a client who has nephrotic syndrome. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Rationale: A. Smokey brown urine is incorrect because this is more characteristic of nephritic syndrome, which involves hematuria due to glomerular inflammation. Nephrotic syndrome primarily causes proteinuria, not hematuria. B. Hypertension is incorrect as a primary expected finding. While blood pressure can be mildly elevated due to fluid retention, severe hypertension is more commonly associated with nephritic syndrome rather than nephrotic syndrome. C. Polyuria is incorrect because nephrotic syndrome does not typically cause increased urine output. In fact, urine output may be normal or slightly reduced due to fluid retention. D. Facial edema is correct. Nephrotic syndrome causes massive proteinuria, leading to hypoalbuminemia. Low albumin reduces plasma oncotic pressure, causing fluid to shift into the interstitial space and resulting in edema, commonly starting in the periorbital area (around the eyes), especially in the morning. Edema can also affect the legs, abdomen, and other dependent areas as the syndrome progresses.