During postoperative care, which sign may indicate the presence of infection at the surgical site?

Fever is a significant clinical sign that may indicate the presence of infection at the surgical site during postoperative care. The body often responds to infection with an increase in temperature as part of the immune response. This fever can signal the presence of inflammatory processes happening at or around the surgical site, making it a crucial indicator for healthcare providers to monitor. Elevations in body temperature can prompt further evaluation and, if necessary, interventions to address a possible infection, ensuring patient safety and proper recovery.

In contrast, increased appetite can be a sign of recovery and does not specifically relate to infection. A normal heart rate typically indicates hemodynamic stability and does not suggest infection unless other symptoms are present. Absence of pain may occur, especially in cases of uncomplicated healing, but does not reliably indicate the absence of infection; infections can sometimes be present without significant pain. Thus, fever remains the most pertinent sign to watch for in assessing potential surgical site infections.