What assessment finding would suggest the presence of a pericardial effusion?

The presence of narrowed pulse pressure is indicative of a pericardial effusion because it reflects the hemodynamic changes that occur when excess fluid accumulates in the pericardial space. As fluid builds up, it exerts pressure on the heart, potentially leading to decreased stroke volume and consequently reduced cardiac output. This results in a more significant difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure, manifesting as a narrowed pulse pressure.

In the context of pericardial effusion, this symptom is pivotal, as the condition can lead to cardiac tamponade, where the heart's ability to fill with blood is compromised due to the fluid pressure. As a result, abnormalities in the pulse pressure can serve as a vital sign for healthcare professionals to monitor.

Other symptoms associated with pericardial effusion may include muffled heart sounds or distended neck veins, but narrowed pulse pressure directly points to the effect of the effusion on hemodynamics, making it a critical finding in the assessment of this condition.