A patient, recovering from a total hip replacement, develops a fever and redness at the surgical site. Which of the following should the nurse consider first when assessing this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of fever and redness at the surgical site is indicative of a possible infection. Osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone, is a serious complication that can occur after joint replacement surgery. It is important for the nurse to assess for other signs and symptoms of infection and immediately notify the healthcare provider if an infection is suspected. Subacute osteoporosis, pathological fracture, and osteitis deformans are not typically associated with the development of fever and redness at a surgical site.

A Patient, Recovering from a Total Hip Replacement, Develops a Fever