Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What does edema signify in a medical context?

1. Lacking teeth, toothless

2. Difficulty breathing

3. Swelling caused by excess fluid in the body

4. Material used to cover a wound

The correct answer is: Swelling caused by excess fluid in the body

Edema is a medical term that specifically refers to swelling caused by excess fluid accumulating in the tissues of the body. This condition can occur in various parts of the body, often in the extremities like the legs, ankles, and feet, but it can also manifest in other areas such as the abdomen. The presence of edema is an important indicator for healthcare professionals, as it can signal underlying health issues, such as heart, kidney, or liver problems. The other options relate to different medical conditions or phenomena: lacking teeth refers to a dental issue, difficulty breathing pertains to respiratory concerns, and material used to cover a wound is related to wound care. Thus, these options do not capture the essence of edema as accurately as the correct choice does.