Which sign suggests extracellular fluid volume excess?

• A. Distended neck veins
• B. Dry mucous membranes
• C. Tachycardia without edema
• D. Decreased skin turgor

Answer: (A)

Distended neck veins point to extracellular fluid volume excess because they reflect increased central venous pressure when the vascular system is overloaded with fluid. When the body retains more water, the veins, especially in the neck, become visibly stretched and bulging as they can't accommodate the extra volume. This sign often accompanies other indicators of fluid overload, such as edema or hypertension.

In contrast, dry mucous membranes and decreased skin turgor signal volume depletion, not excess, indicating loss of fluids from the extracellular space. Tachycardia can occur for many reasons, but when it’s present without edema, it’s less specific for fluid overload and can point toward dehydration or other conditions.