Final answer:
Dependent Edema is a key sign that may lead a nurse to suspect heart failure, as it indicates an accumulation of fluid in the lower limbs, often associated with cardiovascular issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
During a home care visit, a nurse assessing a client for potential heart failure will suspect the condition if they observe symptoms such as dependent Edema. Dependent Edema refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the lower limbs due to gravity and is symptomatic of cardiovascular issues such as heart failure. This condition is a result of the heart's diminished ability to pump blood effectively, causing fluid to back up into the tissues, leading to swelling.
Regarding the patient mentioned, standing for prolonged periods, especially when overweight and with limited physical activity, can exacerbate this fluid accumulation, as the skeletal muscle pump is less effective in assisting the return of blood back towards the heart. An increase in venous pressure can lead to fluid seeping out of the capillaries and into the surrounding tissues, thus contributing to symptoms like swollen feet and ankles.