When performing dressing changes in an older client, what should the nurse assess for?

A. Decreased pain levels: Pain levels may vary during dressing changes, but decreased pain is not the primary focus. The nurse should be more alert to signs indicating complications rather than assuming pain will lessen. B. Skin color changes: While skin color changes can indicate tissue perfusion issues or pressure injuries, they are not the main priority during dressing changes. The nurse should focus on direct wound-related assessments first. C. Signs of infection: Assessing for redness, swelling, warmth, odor, or purulent drainage is critical during dressing changes. Older clients have a higher risk for infection due to decreased immunity and skin integrity, so identifying early signs is essential for timely intervention. D. Changes in blood pressure: Blood pressure monitoring is important for overall health but is not specifically relevant during a dressing change unless the client’s condition dictates otherwise. It is not a priority in assessing the wound itself.