Left-sided heart failure is characterized by

Choice A reason: Jugular vein distention is a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided. It indicates increased pressure in the right atrium and vena cava. Choice B reason: Peripheral edema is also a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided. It indicates fluid retention in the lower extremities and abdomen. Choice C reason: Decreased systemic vascular resistance is not a characteristic of left-sided heart failure. It is a compensatory mechanism that occurs in response to reduced cardiac output. Choice D reason: Pulmonary congestion is a characteristic of left-sided heart failure. It indicates fluid accumulation in the lungs due to the inability of the left ventricle to pump blood effectively.