Which assessment finding indicates a possible infection that requires follow-up?

The presence of greenish-yellow drainage from a wound is a significant indicator of a potential infection. This type of drainage often suggests the presence of pus, which is typically composed of dead cells, bacteria, and cellular debris, indicating that the body is responding to an infection. In the context of wound healing, abnormal drainage that is discolored or foul-smelling raises concerns and indicates that further evaluation and possibly intervention are necessary to address the infection and prevent complications.

Normal body temperature, stable blood pressure, and common symptoms like coughing and sneezing do not provide specific indications of an infection warranting immediate follow-up. While coughing and sneezing can be signs of respiratory infections, they are not as definitive as the specific characteristics of wound drainage that suggest an ongoing infectious process. Thus, the greenish-yellow drainage distinctly signals a need for further assessment and possible treatment to manage the infection effectively.