Which assessment is necessary for the 5-year-old client with a dog bite?

In the case of a dog bite in a 5-year-old client, performing sutures for the wound is a necessary assessment primarily because of the risk of infection, the potential for tissue damage, and the need for proper healing of the injury. Dog bites can result in lacerations that may require closure to facilitate healing and prevent complications such as infection or excessive scarring.

Although other assessments such as pain evaluation and infection lab tests are important, the immediate need for suturing addresses the integrity of the wound itself, ensuring it is managed correctly. Assessing the pain level will guide treatment and comfort, while lab tests may be relevant later if signs of infection develop. However, the direct intervention of suturing is pivotal to the management plan for a dog bite, prioritizing wound care and preventing future complications.

Moreover, while an X-ray could be considered if there’s suspicion of a fracture, the more urgent concern in this scenario is the management of the wound from the dog bite itself.