Which of the following signs is commonly observed in patients with right-sided heart failure?

Dependent edema is a classic sign of right-sided heart failure. In this condition, the right side of the heart is unable to effectively pump blood to the lungs for oxygenation. As a result, blood can back up in the systemic circulation, which leads to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities, particularly in the ankles and feet when the patient is seated or standing. This is known as dependent edema because the swelling occurs in the most dependent areas of the body due to gravity.

In contrast, labored breathing is more indicative of left-sided heart failure or respiratory issues, as it often arises from fluid buildup in the lungs. Flat jugular veins would not typically be associated with right-sided heart failure; rather, jugular venous distention is more common due to increased pressure in the venous system. Pulmonary edema is associated primarily with left-sided heart failure, where fluid leaks into the lung tissues as the left ventricle fails to pump effectively, rather than a symptom of right-sided heart failure.