Which statement is least indicative of a postoperative wound infection?

• A. Redness around wound.
• B. Purulent drainage.
• C. Fever.
• D. Itching at the wound site.

Answer: (D)

When evaluating a postoperative wound, signs that point to infection include redness around the wound, which reflects inflammatory blood flow; purulent drainage, which indicates bacterial involvement; and fever, a systemic response to infection. Itching at the wound site does not reliably indicate infection. Itching can come from dry skin, irritation from dressings or adhesive, or a mild allergic reaction, and may occur during normal healing without infection. So, itching is the least indicative of a postoperative wound infection, even though other signs require assessment for possible infection and appropriate management if they appear alongside additional symptoms.