In right-sided heart failure, which of the following is a sign of fluid retention?

In the context of right-sided heart failure, swelling in the legs is a hallmark sign of fluid retention. This condition occurs when the heart is unable to effectively pump blood, leading to increased pressure in the veins and a subsequent buildup of fluid in the extremities, such as the legs and ankles. This phenomenon, known as peripheral edema, is directly related to the fluid overload that accompanies heart failure.

Weight loss, dry skin, and increased appetite do not typically indicate fluid retention. Instead, weight loss may occur due to decreased appetite resulting from the body's overall compromised state or from metabolic changes. Dry skin can be a result of poor circulation or dehydration, and increased appetite is generally not associated with fluid overload, as heart failure often leads to a reduced desire to eat. Thus, swelling in the legs clearly reflects the underlying issue of fluid retention in patients with right-sided heart failure.