A client with peritonitis develops a high fever, chills, and profuse sweating. The nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of:

Choice A reason:

Administering oral antibiotics may be necessary for treating the wound infection, but it does not directly prevent the spread of infection.

Choice B reason:

Performing sterile dressing changes is essential in preventing the spread of infection and promoting wound healing.

Choice C reason:

Limiting visitors to the client's room may help reduce the risk of introducing new pathogens, but it is not the primary intervention for preventing wound infection.

Choice D reason:

Providing pain medication as needed is important for the client's comfort but does not directly prevent the spread of infection.

Choice A reason:

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels and is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.

Choice B reason:

Hyperthyroidism involves an overactive thyroid gland and may cause symptoms such as weight loss and heat intolerance but is not associated with the signs described.

Choice C reason:

The client's high fever, chills, and profuse sweating are suggestive of sepsis, a severe systemic infection often resulting from peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Renal failure involves impaired kidney function and may present with specific signs, but it is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.