What are the signs of an infection that nurses need to monitor in postoperative patients?

In monitoring postoperative patients, recognizing the signs of infection is crucial for timely intervention and effective management. The signs of infection typically include redness, swelling, increased pain, and fever.

Redness and swelling at the surgical site are indicative of inflammation, which often occurs in response to infection. Increased pain can signify complications in the healing process or the presence of an abscess. Fever, a systemic response, is a significant indicator of infection and suggests that the body is fighting off pathogens. Together, these symptoms create a clear picture that may warrant further assessment, diagnostic tests, or interventions to prevent more serious complications.

The other options highlight symptoms or conditions that do not typically correlate with infection. Increased appetite and energy might suggest recovery rather than indicate an infection, while weight loss and fatigue can be general signs of illness but are not specific to infection. Normal healing with no symptoms is the ideal postoperative outcome, suggesting that the area is healing properly without signs of complications or infection.