What assessment finding might indicate infection?

An elevated temperature, along with redness and swelling, is indicative of an infection. The body's immune response to infection often triggers an increase in body temperature, commonly known as a fever, which is a key sign that the body is fighting off pathogens. Redness and swelling occur due to increased blood flow and accumulation of immune cells at the site of infection, leading to localized inflammation.

Fever is a systemic response that can signify the presence of an infectious process, while redness and swelling are local signs that suggest inflammation, often associated with infections such as cellulitis or abscesses. Recognizing these signs is critical in nursing practice, as they prompt timely intervention and treatment to manage the infection effectively.

The other options do not align with typical findings associated with infection; for instance, low blood pressure and dizziness may indicate shock or other complications rather than direct signs of infection. Increased appetite and energy are contrary to what is typically observed in individuals dealing with an infection, as they usually experience fatigue and loss of appetite. Clear skin without lesions further suggests the absence of infection, as it indicates that there are no visible manifestations typically associated with infectious diseases.