Long-Term Care

This week's tip: Identifying and monitoring edema

LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer, August 30, 2007

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CNAs should monitor edema and inform their supervisor of the presence of this condition, as well as changes in the amount of fluid retained. Types of edema include the following:

  • Nonpitting edema: may be localized to one area, or generalized throughout the body (anasarca). The skin appears shiny and taut.
  • Periorbital edema: occurs around the orbitus of the eyes.
  • Peripheral edema: occurs in the hands, lower legs, and feet.
  • Pitting edema: occurs when there is obvious fluid in the skin. It retains an indentation caused by palpation of the skin.



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