A 72-year-old man presents to your clinic with worsening lower leg edema. He has hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and a history of heavy drinking. On examination, he is pale and has a BMI of 35. Vital signs are as follows:
Blood pressure: 110/60 mm Hg
Heart rate: 102/min
Temperature: Afebrile
His jugular venous pressure is 4 cm above the sternal angle. Cardiac auscultation is normal, and his lungs are clear. His liver is not palpable; he has abdominal distension, bulging flanks, and pitting edema below the knees. While awaiting test results, which one of the following is the best next step?
Submit