What it means
Puffiness that happens when fluid leaks out of the blood vessels and collects in the spaces between cells. It is often seen in the feet, ankles and legs, in the lower back of a client in bed, or around the eyes. When pressing the skin leaves a dent that stays for a moment, it is called pitting edema. Common causes include heart failurehart FAYL-yerA long-term condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.Full entry , kidney and liver disease, low protein, injury and some drugs.
For the nurse
Press over a bony area for a few seconds and note how deep the dent is and how long it lasts; many agencies grade pitting edema from 1+ (slight) to 4+ (severe). Weigh the client daily, track intake and outputIN-tayk and OWT-putThe measured record of all fluids a client takes in and all fluids that leave the body over a set time.Full entry , and raise swollen legs. Report new or quickly worsening swelling, swelling in only one leg, or swelling with shortness of breath.
In a chart
"2+ pitting edema to bilateral ankles; weight up 1.5 kg since yesterday."
At a glance
| Everyday words | swelling |
|---|---|
| Spanish | edema |
| Also written | edemas, oedema, edematous |
Related terms
deep vein thrombosis
A blood clot in a deep vein, most often in the leg or pelvis.
chronic kidney disease
Kidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts longer than three months.
heart failure
A long-term condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
pulmonary edema
A buildup of fluid in the air sacs and tissues of the lungs.