A client with cellulitis has several risk factors for the condition. Which factor is NOT a known risk factor for cellulitis?

Choice A rationale:

Administering anticoagulant medication is not an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with a skin infection.

Anticoagulants are used to prevent or treat blood clots and have no direct relevance to managing a skin infection.

Choice B rationale:

Elevating the affected limb is an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with a skin infection.

Elevation can help reduce swelling and improve circulation to the affected area, which can aid in the healing process.

Choice C rationale:

Applying warm compresses is a suitable nursing intervention for a skin infection, as it can help promote blood flow to the affected area, alleviate pain, and potentially aid in the drainage of any abscesses or pus.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging frequent ambulation may or may not be appropriate, depending on the severity and location of the skin infection.

While ambulation can be beneficial for preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in some cases, it may not be suitable if the infection is in an area where movement exacerbates symptoms or if the patient's overall condition is too compromised.

Choice E rationale:

Administering NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain relief is generally appropriate for a patient with a skin infection, as it can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

However, it should be used in conjunction with other appropriate interventions like warm compresses and elevation.

Choice A rationale:

"The patient's ability to ambulate independently." While ambulation is an important aspect of patient care, in the context of a skin infection, the priority should be assessing and managing the infection and associated symptoms.

The patient's ability to ambulate independently should be considered but may not be the highest priority.

Choice B rationale:

"The size, shape, and characteristics of any skin lesions or blisters." This is the correct answer.

When assessing a patient with a skin infection, it is essential to prioritize the evaluation of the affected area's skin lesions or blisters.

This assessment can help determine the severity of the infection, whether there are signs of abscess formation, and guide appropriate treatment.

Choice C rationale:

"The patient's response to pain management interventions." While pain management is important, it is a secondary consideration in the context of a skin infection.

Addressing the infection's source and associated complications, such as abscesses, should take precedence.

Choice D rationale:

"The patient's daily fluid intake." While monitoring fluid intake is generally important in patient care, it may not be the highest priority in assessing and managing a skin infection unless there are specific concerns related to hydration status.

The primary focus should be on the infection itself and its associated symptoms.