Which signs suggest fluid overload in a patient receiving IV fluids?

• A. Weight loss and dry skin
• B. Decreased blood pressure and tachycardia
• C. Edema, crackles in the lungs, weight gain, and possibly elevated blood pressure
• D. No changes in weight or lung sounds

Answer: (C)

Fluid overload happens when the IV fluids add more volume than the body can handle, causing excess fluid to accumulate in tissues and the lungs. The signs that fit this picture are edema from fluid buildup in interstitial spaces, crackles in the lungs from fluid in the airways and alveoli, weight gain from retained fluid, and possibly elevated blood pressure as the circulating volume increases. In contrast, weight loss and dry skin point to dehydration or a fluid deficit, and decreased blood pressure with tachycardia also fits a deficit rather than overload. No changes in weight or lung sounds would not reflect fluid excess. So the combination of edema, crackles, weight gain, and possible higher blood pressure best indicates fluid overload.