Which of the following signs indicates an infection in a wound?

Fever is a common physiological response to an infection in the body, including infections that may occur in a wound. When the body detects an infection, the immune system responds by releasing pyrogens, which act on the hypothalamus to raise the body's temperature. This elevated temperature can help to inhibit the growth of pathogens and enhance the immune response. In the context of wound care, the presence of fever often indicates that the body is actively responding to an infection at or near the site of the wound, making it a significant sign to monitor.

Other signs of infection in a wound may include redness, swelling, increased pain, heat at the site, and purulent discharge. However, fever is a systemic sign that indicates an infection might be more widespread, rather than localized only to the wound itself. Recognizing fever as a sign of infection allows healthcare providers to intervene timely, ensuring appropriate management of the infection and minimizing complications.