Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A furuncle, commonly known as a boil, is a painful and often inflamed skin lesion caused by a bacterial infection, typically involving hair follicles. One of the hallmark signs of a furuncle is localized pain and tenderness, which often occurs due to the buildup of pus and inflammation in the affected area. This pain is a result of the body's immune response to the infection, causing the surrounding tissues to become swollen and sensitive.

A furuncle typically presents as a red, swollen bump that may increase in size, and this localized nature of the pain differentiates it from other conditions that may cause generalized swelling or discomfort. The tenderness is quite evident upon touch, indicating the presence of infection deep beneath the skin surface.

Other signs associated with furuncles include warmth and possibly fever if the infection is severe, but localized pain and tenderness are particularly significant indicators. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of skin infections in acute care settings.