A nurse is caring for a client who has fluid volume excess. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

Rationale A. Bounding pulse: A full, strong, or bounding pulse is a classic sign of fluid volume excess due to increased circulating blood volume. The elevated intravascular pressure causes the heart to eject blood more forcefully, making the pulse more palpable. Assessing pulse quality helps identify hypervolemia and monitor cardiovascular status. B. Polyuria: Polyuria is more commonly associated with fluid volume excess caused by conditions like diabetes insipidus or use of diuretics, but it is not a primary manifestation in general hypervolemia. Fluid overload typically results in edema and decreased urinary output if the kidneys are unable to compensate. C. Weight loss: Weight loss indicates fluid volume deficit rather than excess. Fluid retention in hypervolemia usually presents as rapid weight gain, which reflects increased total body water and extracellular fluid accumulation. Monitoring daily weight is key to assessing fluid status. D. Dry mucous membranes: Dry mucous membranes are characteristic of dehydration or fluid volume deficit. In fluid volume excess, mucous membranes may appear moist, and edema may be present due to fluid accumulation in tissues. Evaluating mucous membranes helps differentiate between overhydration and dehydration.