What does excess water in tissues suggest?

Excess water in tissues is typically indicative of edema, which is a condition characterized by an accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of the body. This fluid retention can occur due to various underlying health issues, such as heart failure, kidney disease, or inflammation. Edema can manifest in different forms, such as swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen, and understanding this condition is critical for priority assessments and treatments in nursing care.

While the other options may relate to health issues, they do not specifically describe the direct relationship between excess water in tissues and the condition of edema, making edema the most accurate choice in this context.