Which of the following findings would be expected in a patient with pulmonary edema during a physical examination?

Which of the following findings would be expected in a patient with pulmonary edema during a physical examination?

• A. Cyanosis
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Skin rash
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (A)

Cyanosis is a sign that would be expected in a patient with pulmonary edema during a physical examination. Pulmonary edema is characterized by excess fluid in the lungs, which impairs gas exchange. This can lead to reduced oxygen levels in the blood, resulting in a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, particularly around the lips and fingertips. This change in color occurs due to the inadequate oxygenation of hemoglobin, a condition that can easily present in patients experiencing significant respiratory distress. While bradycardia, a skin rash, and weight gain may have their own implications, they are not direct findings associated with the physical examination of someone suffering from pulmonary edema. Bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate, does not typically correlate with this condition, as pulmonary edema is more likely associated with tachycardia due to increased heart strain. A skin rash is not related to pulmonary edema and often indicates different dermatological or systemic issues. Weight gain can occur in cases of fluid retention but is generally not an immediate finding during a physical examination focused on the acute presentation of pulmonary edema.

Cyanosis is a sign that would be expected in a patient with pulmonary edema during a physical examination. Pulmonary edema is characterized by excess fluid in the lungs, which impairs gas exchange. This can lead to reduced oxygen levels in the blood, resulting in a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, particularly around the lips and fingertips. This change in color occurs due to the inadequate oxygenation of hemoglobin, a condition that can easily present in patients experiencing significant respiratory distress.

While bradycardia, a skin rash, and weight gain may have their own implications, they are not direct findings associated with the physical examination of someone suffering from pulmonary edema. Bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate, does not typically correlate with this condition, as pulmonary edema is more likely associated with tachycardia due to increased heart strain. A skin rash is not related to pulmonary edema and often indicates different dermatological or systemic issues. Weight gain can occur in cases of fluid retention but is generally not an immediate finding during a physical examination focused on the acute presentation of pulmonary edema.