Final answer:
The nurse is checking for signs of infection such as rashes, bruises, open sores, and swelling when assessing the skin, nails, lips, and whites of the eyes. These signs can indicate the presence of bacterial or fungal infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing the skin, nails, lips, whites of the eyes, and looking for rashes, bruises, open sores, and swelling, the nurse is checking for signs of infection. These signs can indicate the presence of bacteria or other pathogens that have entered the body and are causing an immune response. Examples of skin infections include cellulitis, impetigo, and fungal infections.