An older adult patient who is malnourished presents to the emergency department with a serum albumin that is low with total protein that is also low. Which clinical manifestation should the nurse expect?

Rationale: A. Restlessness can occur with electrolyte imbalances or hypoxia, but it is not a hallmark of low albumin or protein malnutrition. B. Low serum albumin and total protein decrease plasma oncotic pressure, allowing fluid to shift from the vascular space into interstitial tissues, leading to peripheral and sometimes generalized edema (anasarca). C. Pallor is more indicative of anemia, which may coexist but is not a direct effect of hypoalbuminemia. D. Confusion can result from electrolyte disturbances, hypoxia, or hepatic encephalopathy, but it is not a direct manifestation of low albumin.