Patient/caregiver was educated on complications of edema as follows:

• Impaired Wound Healing:

  • Swelling in tissues can interfere with the normal healing process of wounds, making it harder for the body to repair damage and increasing the risk of chronic wounds.

• Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalance:

  • Persistent edema can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, particularly when caused by conditions like heart or kidney failure, which affect fluid regulation.
  • This imbalance can cause complications like hypokalemia or hyperkalemia, which can affect heart function.

• Pulmonary Complications:

  • Severe edema, particularly in the lungs (pulmonary edema), can impair gas exchange, leading to breathing difficulties, shortness of breath, and hypoxia.

• Cardiovascular Stress:

  • Edema, particularly in heart failure, can exacerbate the strain on the heart, leading to worsened cardiovascular function and increased risk of heart attacks or arrhythmias.

• Psychosocial Impact:

  • The physical discomfort and visible swelling can cause emotional distress, anxiety, and decreased quality of life.