A nurse is assessing a client with suspected ascites. Which of the following findings would the nurse expect to observe during the physical examination?

Choice A reason:

Coughing and wheezing during physical activity are typical symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF), but they do not directly indicate the presence of ascites.

Choice B reason:

Rapid and irregular heart rate at rest is a common manifestation of congestive heart failure (CHF) but does not directly indicate the presence of ascites.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Ascites is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, leading to swelling and distention in the lower abdomen.

Choice D reason:

Cold and clammy extremities are not typical manifestations of ascites and are not directly related to fluid overload in congestive heart failure (CHF).

Choice A reason:

Increased urine output and dehydration are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites involves fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, not fluid loss through the urinary system.

Choice B reason:

Weight loss and decreased abdominal girth are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites typically leads to increased abdominal girth and swelling.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Visible abdominal swelling and distention are early signs of ascites progression. As fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity, the abdomen may become visibly swollen and distended.

Choice D reason:

Reduced ankle edema and lower extremity swelling are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites primarily affects the abdominal cavity, not the extremities.