A nurse is assessing a client who is at the end of life. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason: Mottled skin, or livedo reticularis, is common at the end of life due to circulatory shutdown. Reduced cardiac output and vasoconstriction in peripheral vessels cause uneven blood flow, leading to mottling. This reflects systemic hypoperfusion as the body prioritizes vital organs in terminal stages. Choice B reason: Hypertension is uncommon at the end of life, as circulatory failure typically causes hypotension due to decreased cardiac output and vascular tone. Sympathetic drive may briefly elevate blood pressure, but terminal hypoperfusion leads to low pressure, not sustained hypertension, in dying patients. Choice C reason: Moist mucous membranes are not typical at the end of life, as dehydration occurs from reduced intake and fluid shifts. Dry mucous membranes result from decreased salivary and mucosal secretions, reflecting hypovolemia and reduced glandular function in terminal patients, not moist conditions. Choice D reason: Increased bowel sounds are not expected at the end of life, as gastrointestinal motility slows due to reduced autonomic function and hypoperfusion. Bowel sounds typically decrease or cease, reflecting ileus or shutdown of digestive processes as the body conserves energy in terminal stages.