A client is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of acute pulmonary edema. The client has a history of hypertension and diabetes. Which comorbidity is considered a significant risk factor for the development of pulmonary edema?

A) Incorrect. Increased lung compliance would not contribute to pulmonary edema; in fact, it might reduce the risk of fluid accumulation in the lungs.

B) Correct. Impaired alveolar fluid clearance, often due to altered pulmonary capillary permeability, is a key factor in the pathophysiology of pulmonary edema.

C) Incorrect. Constricted pulmonary blood vessels (vasoconstriction) would reduce blood flow to the lungs and are not a primary factor in pulmonary edema.

D) Incorrect. Enhanced left ventricular contractility, while beneficial for cardiac function, is not directly related to the development of pulmonary edema.

A) Incorrect. A decreased respiratory rate is not typically associated with pulmonary edema, which often leads to increased respiratory effort.

B) Correct. Inspiratory crackles in the lung bases are indicative of fluid accumulation in the alveoli and are a common physical finding in pulmonary edema.

C) Incorrect. Increased breath sounds are not typically associated with pulmonary edema; instead, crackles or wheezing may be heard.

D) Incorrect. Diminished heart sounds are not a characteristic finding in pulmonary edema.