Final answer:
When a nurse finds a patient with a worsening wound, the first step is to assess the wound and the patient's overall condition, looking for signs of infection. If infection is present, notify the healthcare provider or wound care specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse finds a patient with a worsening wound, the first step would be to assess the wound and the patient's overall condition. The nurse should check for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, and drainage. If the wound shows signs of infection, the nurse should notify the healthcare provider or wound care specialist for further evaluation and treatment. It is important to address any underlying issues such as poor blood flow or a compromised immune system in order to prevent the infection from worsening.