The nurse is working with a client who has a diagnosis of cellulitis. The spouse asks the nurse: "Just what is cellulitis anyway?" Which of the following would be the nurse's best answer?

Question

a. an infection in the intracellular spaces, which forces fluids into extracellular space
b. a reaction to an intravenous injection of fluid or medication that has extravasated into the tissue
c. a severe inflammation of cells in any area of the body that will almost always respond to anti-inflammatory drugs
d. inflammation and infection in the loose connective tissue, which extends into the dermis; it often occurs following minor trauma

Answer 1

D

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A Incorrect. Cellulitis is not an infection of the intracellular spaces, which forces fluids into extracellular tissue.
B Incorrect. Cellulitis is not a reaction to an intravenous injection.
C Incorrect. Cellulitis and the associated swelling are not resolved by the use of anti-inflammatory medications.
D Correct. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that involves the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Subsequent inflammation and infection develop in loose connective tissue.