What is the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient with a large open wound?

Selecting risk for infection as the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient with a large open wound is appropriate because an open wound presents a direct pathway for pathogens to enter the body, significantly increasing the patient's vulnerability to infection. Identifying this diagnosis as a priority emphasizes the need for timely interventions, such as wound care, monitoring for signs of infection (redness, swelling, purulent drainage), and educating the patient about proper wound care techniques.

While impaired skin integrity accurately reflects the wound's condition, addressing the risk of infection is paramount due to the potential complications that can arise if the wound becomes infected. Pain is an important aspect of nursing care but does not pose an imminent threat to the patient’s health compared to the risk of developing an infection. A self-care deficit may also be relevant, but again, it’s less immediate when considering the immediate health risks associated with an open wound. Therefore, focusing on the risk for infection ensures proactive management of one of the most critical concerns for a patient with a large open wound.