What is a common sign that may indicate a possible infection around a surgical incision?

A common sign indicating a possible infection around a surgical incision is fever. The body typically generates a fever in response to an infection as part of the immune response. The elevation in body temperature occurs due to the release of pyrogens, which is the body's way of signaling that it is fighting off pathogens. Monitoring for fever is an essential practice post-surgery, as it can be one of the early signs of a developing infection.

Improved healing would suggest that the incision is progressing well and does not indicate an infection. A sunken appearance around a surgical site could suggest complications but is not a classic sign of an infection. Excessive energy levels are generally not associated with infection; rather, they may indicate good recovery and health, which would be contrary to the presence of an infection where patients typically feel lethargic or weak. Thus, recognizing fever as a key indicator is vital for early diagnosis and treatment of infections following surgical procedures.