Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

The presence of anasarca is associated commonly with which of the following conditions?

1. Dyspnea

2. Edema

3. Hepatomegaly

4. Pleural effusion

The correct answer is: Edema

Anasarca refers to severe generalized edema, and it is characterized by widespread swelling in the body due to the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces. The correct choice highlights that edema itself is a direct manifestation of anasarca, which can occur in various conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, or kidney dysfunction. In situations where anasarca is present, you would observe fluid accumulation not just in one specific area but throughout the body, making edema the most relevant condition associated with it. Other choices may reflect complications or symptoms that can arise from conditions leading to anasarca but do not directly define the state of this significant fluid retention.