Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam

Which of the following could be a sign of a spreading infection?

1. Localized pain

2. Redness around the wound

3. Extending induration

4. Decreased temperature

The correct answer is: Extending induration

When assessing a wound for signs of infection, it’s important to recognize various clinical indicators that suggest the infection may be spreading. Extending induration, which refers to the hardening or firmness of the skin surrounding a wound, can be a significant sign of a spreading infection. This occurs due to the body's inflammatory response to the infection, leading to an accumulation of interstitial fluid and inflammatory cells in the tissue. The presence of induration that extends beyond the original wound area suggests that the infection is not localized but instead affecting a broader area, indicating a potential systemic issue that requires prompt medical attention. Localized pain can occur with both localized infections and more widespread issues, but it does not specifically indicate that the infection is spreading. Redness around the wound is also a common sign of infection, but like localized pain, it may not reflect the extent of the infection. Decreased temperature would typically be indicative of a lack of inflammation or infection, as fever is often a response to a systemic infection. Overall, recognizing extending induration as a sign of a spreading infection is crucial for timely intervention and effective management of the patient's condition.