Which of the following is a sign of fluid overload?

• A. Edema
• B. Dry skin
• C. Weight loss
• D. Hypothermia

Answer: (A)

Fluid overload is when the body retains more fluid than it can manage, so swelling becomes the most noticeable sign. Edema occurs when excess fluid shifts into the interstitial tissues, leading to swelling in parts like the feet, ankles, legs, or around the eyes. In dialysis care, new or worsening edema between treatments signals that fluid removal may need adjustment or that fluid intake should be reviewed, so clinicians can prevent complications like high blood pressure or shortness of breath. The other options don’t reflect excess fluid: dry skin suggests dehydration, weight loss points to fluid deficit or other issues, and hypothermia is a low body temperature not caused by fluid overload.