Which client symptom should a nurse assess further for possible congestive heart failure?

Weight gain is a crucial symptom to assess further for possible congestive heart failure (CHF) because it often indicates fluid retention. In CHF, the heart's inability to pump efficiently leads to a backlog of blood, which can cause fluid to accumulate in the tissues and the lungs. This condition, known as edema, can result in sudden or gradual weight gain as the body retains sodium and water in response to decreased cardiac output. Monitoring a client's weight trend is an essential part of managing CHF, as even a small increase in weight can signal worsening heart failure and guide further interventions.

The other symptoms listed are not typically associated with congestive heart failure in the same direct manner as weight gain. Loose stools might indicate gastrointestinal issues or infections rather than any cardiac condition. A skin rash could be a sign of an allergic reaction or other dermatological problems rather than heart failure. Similarly, a headache may stem from various non-cardiac causes, such as tension or migraines. Therefore, weight gain stands out as a symptom effectively linked to the potential exacerbation of congestive heart failure.