A nurse is changing the dressing on a client's wound. The nurse should recognize that which of the following findings is an indication of a wound infection?
Edema
Petechiae
Urticaria
Crusting over granulated tissue
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is: a. Edema.
Choice A: Edema
Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues. It is a common sign of inflammation and infection. When a wound becomes infected, the body’s immune response can cause increased fluid accumulation in the affected area, leading to noticeable swelling. This swelling is often accompanied by redness, warmth, and pain, which are classic signs of infection.
Choice B: Petechiae
Petechiae are small, red or purple spots caused by bleeding into the skin. They are not typically associated with wound infections but rather with conditions that cause bleeding or clotting disorders. Petechiae do not indicate an infection but rather a different underlying issue that may require further investigation.
Choice C: Urticaria
Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin reaction that causes itchy welts. It is usually a result of an allergic reaction and is not a sign of wound infection. Urticaria is characterized by raised, red, itchy bumps on the skin and does not typically occur in response to an infected wound.
Choice D: Crusting over granulated tissue
Crusting over granulated tissue is a normal part of the wound healing process. Granulation tissue forms as the wound heals, and a crust or scab may develop over it to protect the new tissue underneath. This is not an indication of infection but rather a sign that the wound is progressing through the healing stages.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The CRIES pain scale is not suitable for a 10-year-old as this scale is designed for neonates, typically those who are 0 to 6 months old.
Choice B reason: A 3-year-old toddler would be better assessed with a pain scale that allows for their level of understanding and communication, such as the Faces Pain Scale-Revised.
Choice C reason: A 4-year-old preschooler can typically communicate their pain verbally or by using a faces pain scale, making the CRIES scale less appropriate.
Choice D reason: The CRIES pain scale is specifically designed for neonates and is appropriate for assessing pain in a 4-day-old infant who cannot verbally communicate their pain.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cleaning the incision with soap and water is not typically recommended as it can disrupt the healing process and may lead to irritation or infection. The incision should be kept clean and dry, and any cleaning should be done according to the surgeon's instructions.
Choice B reason: Performing hand hygiene before dressing changes is essential in preventing incisional infections. Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections, including those at surgical sites.
Choice C reason: Protective isolation is used for immunocompromised patients to protect them from infections, not typically for postoperative patients unless they are at high risk for infection due to other conditions.
Choice D reason: Allowing the wound to air can be part of the healing process, but it must be done carefully and under the guidance of healthcare professionals to ensure that the wound is protected from contamination.
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