Final answer:
The most accurate area for a nurse to assess skin turgor for dependent edema in a bedridden client who has gained weight rapidly is the sacrum.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a client who is confined to bed in the recumbent position and has gained 5 lb (2.3 kg) in the past 24 hours for dependent edema, the nurse would assess skin turgor in the area most affected by gravity. Considering the position of the patient, the nurse should assess the sacrum (option C), as it is the area where fluid is most likely to accumulate due to the client's horizontal position over an extended period.
Edema is the accumulation of excess water in the tissues, often in the extremities or areas affected by gravity. Because the person is lying down, gravity will cause fluid to collect in the back and lower portions of the body, making the sacrum a prime location for assessing for edema. This is preferred over the foot and ankle, forehead, and chest when the patient is immobile and lying down.
The nurse would assess skin turgor in the area of the sacrum to determine dependent edema in a client who is confined to bed in the recumbent position.
Dependent edema refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the lower extremities due to gravitational forces.
Skin turgor is a measure of the skin's elasticity, which can be assessed by gently pinching the skin and observing how quickly it returns to its normal position.