Question

A​ 40-year-old male has cut his finger in an industrial accident. You perform the scene​ size-up, conduct a primary​ assessment, and determine his chief complaint. You should​ next:

Answer 1

Observing for increased redness, swelling, and pain post-injury is vital for detecting a potential infection, necessitating prompt medical attention and appropriate wound care.

Step-by-step explanation:

It is important to watch for increased redness, swelling, and pain after a cut or abrasion has been cleaned and bandaged because these symptoms may indicate an infection. Infections can occur when bacteria enter the wound, leading to an inflammatory response marked by these symptoms. Mark, David, and Cindy’s scenarios exemplify the significance of monitoring wounds for signs of infection to prevent further complications. In these cases, seeking medical attention is advisable, as early intervention with proper wound care and potentially antibiotics may be required to manage the risk of a spreading infection or other health problems that can arise from untreated wounds.