Following adrenalectomy, which sign would indicate possible wound infection requiring assessment?

• A. Fever without localized signs
• B. Fever with localized signs
• C. A mild headache
• D. Nausea with stable vital signs

Answer: (B)

Localized signs of infection alongside fever after adrenalectomy point most strongly to a wound infection that needs assessment. The wound itself showing redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, or purulent drainage indicates the infection is at the incision site and should be evaluated promptly to prevent spread or deeper sepsis. Fever by itself without localizing signs can be from other causes and isn’t as specific to the wound. A mild headache or nausea with stable vitals are nonspecific and less suggestive of a wound infection. Therefore, fever with localized signs is the best indicator that the wound may be infected and requires assessment.