From the Research
Daily Questions for Cellulitis Patients
To effectively manage and monitor patients admitted with cellulitis, healthcare providers should ask the following daily questions:
- What is the patient's current level of pain and discomfort?
- Are there any changes in the affected area, such as increased redness, swelling, or warmth?
- Has the patient experienced any systemic symptoms, such as fever or chills?
- Are there any signs of complications, such as abscess formation or sepsis?
- Is the patient adhering to the prescribed antibiotic regimen and are there any concerns or side effects?
- Are there any comorbidities or predisposing factors that may be affecting the patient's response to treatment, such as venous insufficiency, lymphedema, or immunosuppression? 1
- Does the patient have any questions or concerns about their condition, treatment, or self-care? 2
Monitoring and Assessment
Daily assessment of the patient's condition is crucial to determine the effectiveness of treatment and identify any potential complications. This includes:
- Evaluating the affected area for signs of improvement or worsening
- Monitoring laboratory results, such as white blood cell count and C-reactive protein levels
- Assessing the patient's overall clinical condition, including vital signs and systemic symptoms
- Considering the use of point-of-care ultrasound to differentiate between cellulitis and abscess, if necessary 3
Patient Education and Support
Providing patients with adequate information and support is essential to promote recovery and prevent recurrence. This includes:
- Educating patients about their condition, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options
- Providing guidance on self-care and wound management
- Addressing patient concerns and questions, and offering emotional support as needed
- Encouraging patients to seek medical attention if they experience any signs of recurrence or complications 2