What clinical manifestation should a nurse expect in a client with acromegaly?

In acromegaly, which is typically caused by excess growth hormone due to a pituitary tumor, one of the hallmark clinical manifestations is the enlargement of facial bones and soft tissues. This leads to a prominent jaw, known medically as prognathism, as well as changes in other facial features such as the nose and brow. Over time, these changes become more evident due to the continuous action of growth hormone on tissues and bones.

The other choices do not align with the typical clinical profile seen in acromegaly. Decreased pulse does not correlate with the condition's symptoms. While a person with acromegaly may experience changes in their overall physique, it is not characterized by a significant increase in height, as growth hormone excess in adults primarily affects the enlargement of existing tissues rather than linear growth. Increased sodium levels are not a direct manifestation of acromegaly and would not be expected as a primary clinical feature associated with the disorder.