What is a common indicator of infection in a wound?

Increased redness and swelling are common indicators of infection in a wound because they are part of the body's inflammatory response. When bacteria invade the wound, the immune system triggers various biological processes to combat the infection, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators. This response typically results in heightened blood flow to the area, causing the wound to appear red and feel warmer. Additionally, the accumulation of fluid and immune cells can lead to swelling around the wound. These signs indicate that the body is responding to a potential threat, which is a critical aspect of recognizing and managing wound infections effectively.

In contrast, other indicators such as a cool temperature would suggest decreased blood flow or vasoconstriction, which is usually not associated with infection. Diminished size of the wound typically indicates healing rather than infection, and stable edges of the wound suggest that the wound is not showing signs of deterioration or spreading, which would also not indicate infection.