Which assessment finding is associated with risk for infection in a patient?

Fever and chills are significant assessment findings that indicate a potential risk for infection in a patient. When the body is responding to an infection, the immune system often triggers a systemic inflammatory response, which can result in an elevation in body temperature (fever) and may also cause sensations of chills as the body attempts to regulate and fight off the infection. These symptoms can suggest the presence of an underlying infection that the body is trying to combat, making it crucial for healthcare providers to investigate further and intervene if necessary.

In contrast, a normal white blood cell count typically reflects a healthy immune response, while healthy skin integrity is associated with a lower risk for infection, as intact skin is a primary barrier against pathogens. Stable vital signs often indicate that the patient is in a stable condition and may not be experiencing acute distress or infection at that moment. Hence, the presence of fever and chills is a vital signal that a patient may be facing an infectious process, necessitating further evaluation and management.