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On the 5th postoperative day, it is noticed that large amounts of clear, pink, salmon-colored fluid are soaking the wound dressings of a patient who had a negative exploratory laparotomy for a stab wound of the abdomen. The laparotomy was done through a midline supraumbilical and infraumbilical incision. When seen by the surgical staff, the patient is lying in bed in the supine position, with the dressings removed. In the dim light of his hospital room, the incision appears intact and not particularly red or inflamed, but there are indeed traces of the clear pink fluid on his skin. He has no specific complaints. He is still NPO and on IV fluids, but has already been passing gas per rectum, and plans had been made to feed him today. The abdomen is not distended, and he has normal bowel sounds. He is afebrile. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
A. Culture the pink fluid and start empiric antibiotic therapy B. Gently probe the wound at several points until pus is found and drained C. Help the patient out of bed and have him walk to the examining room for proper inspection of the wound D. Stop plans for oral feedings and start total parenteral nutrition E. Tape the wound securely, bind the abdomen, and avoid events that would suddenly increase his intra-abdominal pressure
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