“Risk for” diagnoses do not have signs

or symptoms, however: patient has

had a previous infection of the right
knee prosthesis

Risk for infection related to surgical incision of

the knee, implantation of a foreign body,
peripheral IV, and continued use of antibiotics.

Patient will exhibit wound incision site

that shows no sign of infection (redness,
swelling, purulent drainage) by end of
shift.
Nurse will monitor and Nurse will instruct
record patients patient on signs and
temperature q4hr and symptoms of
report elevations infection
immediately.

Nurse will perform Nurse will help patient

hand hygiene before reposition every 2
and after care and hours and promote
instruct patient on activity.
proper hand hygiene.

Nurse will monitor

wound drainage
and dressing for
Evaluation: Patient showed no signs of signs of infection 1. Elevated temperature signals onset of infection
2. Hand hygiene prevents spread of pathogens
infection, and temperature was within 3. Abnormal drainage and non intact dressings may
normal range. Dressing remained clean, dry, signal infection
and intact, and patient was out of bed with 4. Moving prevents venous stasis and skin breakdown

the walker several times during the shift. 5. Encourages patient to participate actively in care.

Goal was met, and patient should continue Health Assessment & Communication
N211
monitor for signs of infection after
discharge.