Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society Exam with quizzes, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you get ready for your exam!

Start Multiple Choice Practice Test
Start Flash Cards

Practice this question and more.

How is 'envelopment' defined in the context of support surfaces?

  1. Patient's ability to move freely

  2. Extent to which the support surface conforms to the patient

  3. Duration of pressure contact

  4. Degree of patient weight on the surface

The correct answer is: Extent to which the support surface conforms to the patient

In the context of support surfaces, 'envelopment' refers to the extent to which the support surface conforms to the shape of the patient. This concept is crucial because when a support surface adequately envelops the patient, it helps to distribute the patient's weight more evenly and reduces localized pressure points. This reduces the risk of pressure injuries, as the even distribution mitigates the pressure exerted on any specific area of the body. When a surface does not conform well to the patient's body, it can create areas of high pressure, leading to complications like skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. Therefore, understanding envelopment is essential for selecting appropriate support surfaces that enhance patient comfort and safety.

More Questions Like This