What should be the highest priority nursing diagnosis related to a client showing signs of infection?

When a client is exhibiting signs of infection, the highest priority nursing diagnosis should focus on the immediate effects of the infection, especially as it relates to the client’s health and safety. Impaired tissue integrity becomes paramount because infections can compromise skin and mucous membrane integrity, leading to further complications, including systemic infections and sepsis.

This diagnosis highlights the critical need to assess the condition of any wounds or potential sites of infection closely, as impaired tissue integrity can exacerbate the infection and hinder healing. Addressing this issue ensures that the nursing interventions prioritize the prevention of further tissue damage, optimizing healing environments, and reducing the risk of complications associated with the infection.

In contrast, while the other choices may be relevant to the patient’s overall care, none directly address the immediate and potentially life-threatening implications of an existing infection. For instance, while impaired mobility, chronic pain, and risk for falls are significant concerns in a comprehensive care plan, they do not take precedence over the urgent need to manage and treat the identified infection and its impact on tissue integrity.