In post-spinal fusion assessment, which finding would be most concerning for infection?

In post-spinal fusion assessment, which finding would be most concerning for infection?

• A. An oral temperature of 99° F
• B. A pulse of 110/min
• C. A respiratory rate of 24/min
• D. An oral temperature of 101° F

Answer: (D)

Fever after surgery is a red flag for infection because it shows the body's immune system responding to bacteria at the surgical site or a systemic infection. An oral temperature of 101°F is above normal and points toward a possible infectious process, making it the most concerning finding among the options. A heart rate of 110/min and a respiratory rate of 24/min can occur with pain, anxiety, or dehydration and are less specific indicators of infection. A normal observation like 99°F doesn’t raise infection concern. So, the fever at 101°F best signals potential infection that warrants further assessment.

Fever after surgery is a red flag for infection because it shows the body's immune system responding to bacteria at the surgical site or a systemic infection. An oral temperature of 101°F is above normal and points toward a possible infectious process, making it the most concerning finding among the options. A heart rate of 110/min and a respiratory rate of 24/min can occur with pain, anxiety, or dehydration and are less specific indicators of infection. A normal observation like 99°F doesn’t raise infection concern. So, the fever at 101°F best signals potential infection that warrants further assessment.