Which of the following is a sign of fluid volume overload?

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Fluid volume status is reflected most directly by how much fluid is accumulating in the body and the resulting weight change. When there’s too much fluid, it tends to collect in interstitial spaces, causing edema, and the body weight increases as that excess fluid adds to the total body mass. This combination—weight gain accompanied by edema—is a clear signal of fluid volume overload.

In contrast, signs like weight loss with dry mucous membranes point to fluid volume deficit (dehydration), where the body is short of fluids. Oliguria, or very low urine output, can occur in dehydration or kidney problems and isn’t a hallmark of overload. Normal capillary refill simply indicates peripheral perfusion and doesn’t specifically indicate whether fluid volume is high or low. So the presence of edema with simultaneous weight gain best identifies fluid volume overload.