Question

multiple choice question
which can cause systemic edema?

failure of the left ventricle

increased respiratory rate

hypotension

failure of the right ventricle

Explanation:

To determine the cause of systemic edema, we analyze each option:

• Failure of the left ventricle: Primarily causes pulmonary edema (fluid in lungs), not systemic.
• Increased respiratory rate: Affects gas exchange, not fluid retention leading to systemic edema.
• Hypotension: Low blood pressure; systemic edema is more related to fluid imbalance from heart failure or other issues, not hypotension directly.
• Failure of the right ventricle: Right heart failure leads to increased pressure in the systemic circulation (venous system), causing fluid to leak into tissues, resulting in systemic edema (e.g., peripheral edema, ascites).

Answer:

D. Failure of the right ventricle