Which of the following best describes a characteristic of jaundice?

Jaundice is best characterized by the yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes, which occurs due to an accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, and when the liver is unable to process and eliminate it effectively, it builds up, leading to the yellow discoloration typical of jaundice.

The other options describe conditions that are unrelated to jaundice. For example, blue discoloration of the skin refers to cyanosis, which indicates insufficient oxygen in the blood. Excessive bleeding is associated with clotting disorders or abnormalities in blood vessels and does not pertain to jaundice. Redness of the eyes is generally associated with irritation or infection and also does not relate to the condition of jaundice. Thus, the correct description of jaundice specifically involves the yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes due to bilirubin excess.