A client with cellulitis asks the nurse about the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics. What should the nurse respond?

Choice A rationale:

"The patient's ability to ambulate independently." While ambulation is an important aspect of patient care, in the context of a skin infection, the priority should be assessing and managing the infection and associated symptoms.

The patient's ability to ambulate independently should be considered but may not be the highest priority.

Choice B rationale:

"The size, shape, and characteristics of any skin lesions or blisters." This is the correct answer.

When assessing a patient with a skin infection, it is essential to prioritize the evaluation of the affected area's skin lesions or blisters.

This assessment can help determine the severity of the infection, whether there are signs of abscess formation, and guide appropriate treatment.

Choice C rationale:

"The patient's response to pain management interventions." While pain management is important, it is a secondary consideration in the context of a skin infection.

Addressing the infection's source and associated complications, such as abscesses, should take precedence.

Choice D rationale:

"The patient's daily fluid intake." While monitoring fluid intake is generally important in patient care, it may not be the highest priority in assessing and managing a skin infection unless there are specific concerns related to hydration status.

The primary focus should be on the infection itself and its associated symptoms.

Choice A rationale:

Reduced pain and swelling are not typically associated with abscess formation in cellulitis.

Abscesses are often characterized by localized pain, swelling, and the presence of pus.

The development of an abscess can indicate a more severe infection.

Choice B rationale:

Spreading of the infection to deeper tissues or the bloodstream (sepsis) is a potential complication associated with cellulitis when abscess formation occurs.

If an abscess forms, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.

Early recognition and treatment are essential to prevent sepsis.

Choice C rationale:

Improved wound healing is not a typical outcome when cellulitis leads to abscess formation.

Abscesses can impede wound healing and may require drainage and antibiotic treatment to resolve.

Choice D rationale:

Decreased redness and warmth at the site are not expected outcomes when an abscess forms in cellulitis.

Abscesses are often associated with increased redness and warmth due to inflammation and infection.