A nurse is reviewing a client's medical history and notes a diagnosis of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. The nurse recognizes this as a significant risk factor for congestive heart failure due to its association with:

A) This choice is incorrect because ascites (abdominal swelling due to fluid accumulation) is a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure.

B) This choice is incorrect because dependent edema (swelling in the legs and ankles) is also a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure.

C) This choice is correct. Crackles in the lungs, also known as rales, are the classic hallmark of left-sided heart failure. They occur when fluid accumulates in the lungs, leading to abnormal lung sounds on auscultation.

D) This choice is incorrect because jugular vein distention is associated with right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure.

A) This choice is incorrect because sudden weight gain, shortness of breath, and ankle swelling are not normal with CHF and may indicate worsening of the condition. The nurse should not reassure the client but rather take appropriate action to address the symptoms.

B) This choice is incorrect because the client's symptoms suggest fluid retention, and increasing fluid intake would exacerbate the condition. The nurse should not encourage the client to increase fluid intake without consulting the healthcare provider.

C) This choice is correct. The client's sudden weight gain, shortness of breath, and ankle swelling are signs of worsening congestive heart failure. The nurse's priority action is to notify the healthcare provider immediately to address the client's worsening condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

D) This choice is incorrect because administering a diuretic is not within the nurse's scope of practice without a healthcare provider's order. The nurse should first notify the healthcare provider to evaluate the client's condition and determine the appropriate intervention.