Which sign should trigger immediate reporting to a nurse?

• A. Fever
• B. Increased redness or drainage from a wound
• C. Foul odor
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

When a CNA sees signs that may indicate infection or a complication, they must report them immediately so the nurse can assess and intervene quickly. Fever can be a sign of infection or inflammation somewhere in the body. Increased redness or drainage from a wound suggests the wound is becoming infected or breaking down. A foul odor from a wound is a strong indicator of bacterial infection. Each of these signs alone warrants prompt evaluation, and together they confirm the need for urgent nursing assessment. Therefore, all of the above are reportable right away.

Quick action tip: note the exact sign, where it’s occurring, the time you observed it, and any relevant details (temperature if measured, amount and color of drainage, odor strength), and report this to the nurse immediately.