7th August 2020

A 78-year-old woman with known venous insufficiency presents to the Emergency Department

A 78-year-old woman with known venous insufficiency presents to the Emergency Department with a high fever, increased swelling and redness of the right lower leg. She has a venous ulcer that is exuding a foul-smelling pus.  You suspect that the ulcer is infected. 

What is the best way to determine if the ulcer is infected?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.