Which of these is a sign or symptom of infection?

The presence of confusion can indeed be a sign of infection, particularly in certain populations such as the elderly or those with weakened immune systems. Infections can affect mental status due to factors such as inflammation, the body's response to pathogens, or changes in metabolic processes. As infections progress, especially in more vulnerable individuals, confusion may manifest due to fever, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances that can accompany infections.

Fever is also a prominent indicator of infection, as it reflects the body's immune response to the pathogen. However, while confusion is a more cognitive or neurological sign, fever tends to directly indicate the body's efforts to combat an infection. Likewise, dry skin and increased appetite do not typically correlate with infection signs; dry skin may indicate dehydration or other dermatological issues rather than an infection, and increased appetite is generally seen as a positive health indicator, rather than a symptom of infection.