Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
The nurse assesses a client with cirrhosis and finds 4+ pitting edema of the feet and legs, and massive ascites. Which mechanism contributes to edema and ascites in clients with cirrhosis?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Hypoalbuminemia in cirrhosis reduces colloidal oncotic pressure, causing fluid to leak into tissues, leading to edema and ascites.