Edema

Edema is a finding, not a diagnosis. A swollen limb may reflect venous hypertension, heart failure, low plasma protein, inflammation, venous obstruction, or impaired lymphatic drainage. The nurse first looks at the pattern: Is the swelling unilateral or bilateral? Acute or chronic? Dependent or diffuse? Pitting or firm and non-pitting? Skin colour, warmth, tenderness, and respiratory symptoms then determine whether this is routine reassessment or an urgent problem. Grade pitting edema only after completing that safety screen. A number without location, symmetry, skin findings, and a consistent measurement technique cannot show whether the patient is improving or deteriorating.