A manifestation in which fluid shifts into the interstitial space is called?

Appeared in: MP CHO - 2022

Explanation

Swelling is the clinical term for the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space, a process known as edema.
During inflammation, blood vessels become more permeable, allowing fluid, proteins, and cells to move from the bloodstream into the surrounding tissues.
This leakage of fluid (exudate) causes the tissue to expand, resulting in visible swelling.
In the classical description of inflammation, the Latin term for swelling is 'Tumor'.

Option A: Dolor is the Latin term for pain, which is a symptom of inflammation but not the fluid shift itself. Pain is caused by the pressure from swelling and chemical mediators.
Option B: Calor is the Latin term for heat. It is caused by increased blood flow (hyperemia) to the inflamed area, not by fluid accumulation.
Option D: Rubor is the Latin term for redness. Like heat, it is a result of vasodilation and increased blood flow to the site of injury.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Cardinal Signs of Inflammation as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses frequently assess for swelling (edema) as a key indicator of inflammation, fluid overload, or organ dysfunction (e.g., heart failure, kidney disease, liver failure).
Assessment of swelling includes noting its location, severity (e.g., using a pitting edema scale), symmetry, and any associated signs like redness, warmth, or pain, which helps in differential diagnosis.
Basic nursing interventions for localized swelling include elevation of the affected limb to promote venous and lymphatic drainage, and application of cold compresses to cause vasoconstriction and reduce fluid leakage.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the question stem to identify the core concept. The key phrase is 'fluid shifts into the interstitial space'.
Recall the physiological term for this process, which is edema.
Examine the given options: Dolor, Calor, Swelling, and Rubor.
Recognize that these are the cardinal signs of inflammation.
Match the definition from the stem (fluid accumulation) with the correct option. 'Swelling' is the common English term for edema.
Mentally confirm the definitions of the other options to ensure they are incorrect: Dolor is pain, Calor is heat, and Rubor is redness.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QmPOUEJaI8imMzCMIIf9xV

Potter & Perry Fundamentals of Nursing 9th Edition — Part 1 p. 347-367

Practise the full MP CHO - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.