The nurse assesses a surgical patient the morning of the first postoperative day and notes redness and warmth around the incision. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The incisional redness and warmth are indicators of the normal initial (inflammatory) stage of wound healing by primary intention; the nurse should document the wound appearance and continue to monitor the wound. Notification of the health care provider, assessment every 2 hours, and obtaining wound cultures are not indicated because the healing is progressing normally.

The Nurse Assesses a Surgical Patient the Morning of the First