Which of the following are common clinical signs of a wound infection?

• A. Itching only.
• B. No symptoms.
• C. Slight bruising.
• D. Redness, swelling, drainage, odor, fever, and pain.

Answer: (D)

Recognizing wound infection relies on identifying the inflammatory and sometimes systemic signs that indicate the body is fighting bacteria at the wound site. Infected wounds commonly present with redness, swelling, drainage or pus, a foul odor, fever, and increased pain—these together signal an infection rather than normal healing. That full set is why the option listing redness, swelling, drainage, odor, fever, and pain is the best choice. Itching alone can occur with irritation or allergic reactions and isn't a reliable infection sign; no symptoms means there is no infection; slight bruising is common after an injury and doesn't itself indicate infection.