What is a common complication associated with improper wound care?

The correct choice highlights a significant concern in wound management: delayed healing and infection. When wounds are not cared for properly—whether through inadequate cleaning, inappropriate dressing, or failure to monitor for signs of complications—this can lead to an environment where pathogens can thrive.

Inadequate wound care can prevent the body from mounting an effective healing response, leading to prolonged recovery times. Infection can occur as bacteria enter the wound site, causing complications such as increased pain, swelling, and the production of pus. In some cases, systemic infections can arise, which can pose serious health risks.

Moreover, the inflammatory response, which is a critical part of healing, can become dysregulated if a wound is not cared for properly. This disruption can further delay the healing process, thus reinforcing the importance of proper wound management practices in preventing complications and promoting optimal recovery.