WOUND INFECTION
Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice
Wound Infection
- There is a pimple where a stitch comes through the skin. The pimple suggests a low-grade infection.
Symptom Definition
A break in the skin or a sutured wound shows signs of infection, such as:
- Pus or cloudy fluid is draining from the wound.
- A pimple or yellow crust has formed on the wound.
- The scab has increased in size.
- Increasing redness occurs around the wound.
- A red streak is spreading from the wound toward the heart.
- The wound has become extremely tender.
- Pain or swelling has increased 48 hours after the wound occurred.
- The lymph node draining that area of skin may become large and tender.
- A fever occurs.
- The wound hasn't healed within 10 days after the injury.
See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If
- Stitches and not infected, see SUTURE QUESTIONS.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Reviewed 8/2004
Revised 8/2003
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