Cellulitis- EXAM 3 Flashcards
What is Cellulitis
Acute bacterial infection of the dermis
Presents as warm, red, tender and intense pain
Inflammation being a chief symptom
Can be localized or entire limb
Severe infection can cause fever, increased WBC
Pathophysiology
When normal flora enters dermis through a skin break and multiply causing
Erythema, Pain, Warmth at site, Edema
What is Erysipelas
Superficial cellulitis of skin
Caused by group A streptococcus
Affects lower extremities and face
Can predispose individuals to septicemia, septic shock if treatment is delayed
What is the most common type
Staphylococcus aureus
Next most commonis group a streptococcus
But can also result from nearby abscess and sinusitis
Risk factors in children
Trauma
Folliculitis
and untreated tooth decay
Risk factors in adults
Thinner and more elastic skin
Reduced physical activity
Common RF
DM, Obesity, Previous history of cellulitis, PVD, Tinea pedis and Weakened immune system
Prevention
Good wound care
Skin protection- keeping skin moist, wearing fitted shoes, good nail hygiene
Diagnostic tests
CBC will show increased WBC
Fluid cultures
Blood cultures , Blood lactic acid levels will identify possible sepsis
Pharmacological therapy
Oral antibiotic and systemic antibiotics
Recovery begins within 48 hours
Should be continued for at least 10 days
Nonpharmacologic Therapy
Adequate rest
Elevation of area above the heart to reduce swelling
Infection control measures
Considerations in children
Are more prone to pick and scratch wounds, can increase their risk
Under 3, facial cellulitis more common, can lead to meningitis
Monitor for rapid inflammation and infection
Infants are more susceptible to sepsis
Considerations in older adults
Adults with poor circulation, diabetes, weakened immune system may develop cellulitis without loss of skin integrity
Assessing cellulitis
1.Recognize the infection
2. Document location and symptoms
3. Monitor vital signs
4. Observations and patient interview
5.Physical examination- Assessing for fever! Assessing area from redness, swelling and warmth
Trace boarder to help recognize size changes
Implementation
Administer prescribed antibiotics
Warm compresses 4x day
Bedrest
Advise patient about possible complications
Provider should be notified if the cellulitis enlarges or spreads
