The second day post-operatively, the NG tube is removed and an order is written for fluids as tolerated and a liquid diet. The patient is eager to try taking fluids. What should the nurse recommend that he do?

A. Dry crust on the incision line.
Dry crust on the incision line could indicate that the wound is healing well, but it is not typically a sign of infection. Infection is more commonly associated with redness, warmth, and drainage. A dry crust does not automatically suggest infection.

B. Increased urine output.
Increased urine output is generally a sign of good hydration or adequate kidney function, not an indication of infection. Infection would more likely present with a fever or abnormal wound appearance, not increased urine output.

C. Decreased level of consciousness.
A decreased level of consciousness can be a sign of sepsis, an infection that has spread throughout the body. This is a serious indicator of possible infection, especially if it is sudden or unexplained in the postoperative period.

D. Adventitious breath sounds.
Adventitious breath sounds could be a sign of a respiratory infection or complications such as pneumonia, but they are not necessarily linked to infection at the surgical site. If the sounds are related to infection, this could be a sign of a lower respiratory tract infection.

E. Oral temperature of 38.3° C (101° F).
An oral temperature of 38.3° C (101° F) is a fever, which is a classic sign of infection. Fever is a common early sign of infection in the postoperative period and should be promptly addressed to rule out surgical site infection or other complications.

A. Spray the surgical area with an antimicrobial solution. Spraying an antimicrobial solution on the surgical area is a common method of skin preparation to reduce the risk of infection during surgery. It is important to follow specific guidelines set by the facility or surgical team.

B. Shave the entire surgical site. Shaving the surgical site is not typically recommended anymore because it can cause micro-abrasions that increase the risk of infection. Hair clipping is preferred if hair removal is necessary.

C. Scrub the surgical area for 1 minute with antibacterial solution. Scrubbing the area with an antibacterial solution may be part of the preparation, but it is typically done by the surgical team or after following specific guidelines for cleaning, not as a general preoperative action.

D. Instruct the patient in the use of an antimicrobial soap in the shower. This is another common preoperative practice, but the nurse's role may be to instruct the patient rather than carry out the preparation directly.