A nurse is discussing preventive measures for cellulitis with a client. Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding preventing cellulitis?

Choice A rationale:

Elevate the affected limb.

Elevating the affected limb is an appropriate nursing intervention for managing cellulitis.

It helps reduce swelling and promotes better circulation, which can aid in the healing process.

Choice B rationale:

Apply cold compresses to the area.

This is not an appropriate nursing intervention for cellulitis.

Cold compresses may provide relief for some types of skin conditions but are not recommended for cellulitis, as they can potentially worsen the condition.

Choice C rationale:

Administer antibiotics as prescribed.

Administering antibiotics is a crucial nursing intervention for managing cellulitis.

Cellulitis is typically treated with antibiotics to eliminate the underlying bacterial infection.

Choice D rationale:

Encourage the client to scratch the affected area.

This is not an appropriate nursing intervention.

Scratching can introduce more bacteria into the affected area, potentially worsening the infection.

Choice E rationale:

Provide education on proper wound care.

Educating the client on proper wound care is essential for managing cellulitis.

Teaching the client to keep the wound clean, dry, and covered can help prevent further infection and promote healing.

Choice A rationale:

"Skin blisters and abscesses are signs of worsening infection, and we need to adjust your antibiotic therapy." This response is not entirely accurate.

While skin blisters and abscesses can indicate a more severe infection, the immediate response should focus on proper wound care, drainage if necessary, and evaluating the effectiveness of the current antibiotic therapy.

Adjusting antibiotic therapy may be considered later if the infection does not improve.

Choice B rationale:

"Skin blisters and abscesses are common in severe cases of skin infections and may require drainage or further treatment." This response is correct.

Skin blisters and abscesses can occur in severe skin infections, and they often require drainage, wound care, and potentially further medical intervention to address the underlying infection.

Choice C rationale:

"Skin blisters and abscesses are unrelated to your skin infection and may be a separate dermatological issue." This response is not accurate.

Skin blisters and abscesses in the context of a skin infection are likely related to the infection itself and should be managed accordingly.

Choice D rationale:

"Skin blisters and abscesses indicate an allergic reaction to the antibiotic; we will switch to a different medication." This response is not appropriate unless there is clear evidence of an allergic reaction to the antibiotic.

Skin blisters and abscesses are more commonly associated with the severity of the infection or the presence of pus collection, not necessarily an allergic reaction to the medication.