(^408) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Hot, red skin over the area of infection
- Swollen and painful skin and tissue due to the infection
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- CBC to check on the white blood cell count.
- Culture of the wound to identify the organism causing the cellulitis.
- Ultrasound of the leg to rule out a DVT—deep vein thrombosis.
TREATMENT
Treatment for a beginning infection is oral antibiotics. If fever and body aches
accompany the infection or if the face is involved or the area is extensive, hospi-
talization may be necessary. Empiric treatment is started immediately and is effec-
tive against the most common bacteria.- Cephalexin.
- Dicloxacillin.
- Levofloxacin.
- Tetanus booster if needed.
- Drainage of abscess by a surgeon if necessary.
- Pain medications.
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Pain, discomfort
- Risk of infection
- Impaired skin integrity
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Explain to the patient the importance of good hygiene.
- Wash the affected area daily.
- Use a topical antibiotic ointment and a dry dressing twice daily.
- Elevate the area if possible.