Question

while a client is being treated for a localized wound infection, it is most important for the nurse to routinely perform which action?

1. monitor and trend the clients temperature.
2. send samples of wound drainage for culture.
3. assess the wound for redness and tenderness.
4. obtain and evaluate blood cultures.

Explanation:

• Monitoring temperature (Option 1) helps detect if the local infection is spreading systemically (like developing into sepsis). A rising temperature trend is a crucial sign.
• Sending wound drainage for culture (Option 2) is usually done once initially to identify the pathogen, not routinely.
• Assessing wound redness and tenderness (Option 3) is part of local wound assessment but not as critical as detecting systemic spread (which temperature monitoring helps with).
• Obtaining blood cultures (Option 4) is more for suspected bloodstream infections (not done routinely for a localized wound infection unless there are specific signs).

Answer:

1. Monitor and trend the client's temperature.