Florida CNA Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Test Prep

The identification of common signs of infection is crucial for a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) as early detection can lead to timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. The correct answer highlights key indicators of infection: redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, and fever.

Redness and swelling in an area of the body often signify inflammation, which typically occurs as a response to infection. Warmth in the affected region suggests increased blood flow, which is a natural part of the body’s immune response to fight off pathogens. Drainage may indicate an infection in a wound or surgical site, where pus or other fluids are present as the body attempts to clear the infection. Fever is often a systemic response to infection, reflecting how the body raises its temperature to create a less favorable environment for bacteria and viruses.

In contrast, the other options include symptoms that, while they can occur in various medical conditions, are not specific enough to distinctly indicate an infection. For instance, dry skin and brittle nails may be associated with dehydration or nutritional deficiencies rather than infection, and general tiredness and sweating can occur for many reasons, including stress or fatigue, without pointing directly to an infection. Similarly, a lost appetite and high energy present contradicting signs that do not align with typical infection symptoms