The nurse assesses a client with suspected fluid volume overload. Which finding should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason: Fluid volume overload leads to excess fluid in the intravascular and interstitial spaces. When fluid accumulates in the lungs, it causes pulmonary congestion, which is auscultated as crackles, particularly in the lung bases. This is a classic and expected assessment finding in fluid volume overload. Choice B reason: A hemoglobin level of 19.2 g/dL indicates hemoconcentration, which is more commonly associated with fluid volume deficit rather than overload. In fluid volume overload, hemodilution typically occurs, resulting in decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Choice C reason: A blood pressure of 92/64 mmHg suggests hypotension, which is more consistent with hypovolemia or shock. Fluid volume overload usually leads to increased blood pressure due to expanded intravascular volume, not decreased blood pressure. Choice D reason: Weak peripheral pulses are commonly seen in fluid volume deficit due to decreased circulating volume. In fluid volume overload, pulses are more likely to be bounding as a result of increased intravascular volume and pressure.