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

How should a wound stuck in the inflammatory phase be managed?

1. Watchful waiting without interventions

2. Debridement and infection control

3. Application of sutures to close the wound

4. Use of topical antiseptic only

The correct answer is: Debridement and infection control

Managing a wound that remains in the inflammatory phase is crucial for promoting healing and preventing complications. The inflammatory phase is characterized by the body's response to injury, where processes such as redness, swelling, and pain occur as part of healing. Debridement and infection control are essential in this context. Debridement involves removing dead or non-viable tissue, which helps reduce the bioburden of the wound and promotes a healthy environment for healing. This step is vital as necrotic tissue can prolong inflammation and provide a site for bacterial growth. Infection control further supports healing by addressing potential infections that can hinder the wound's transition to the proliferative phase. This may involve cleaning the wound, using appropriate dressings, and applying topical antimicrobial agents when necessary. Effective management during the inflammatory phase not only helps to move the wound towards healing but also reduces the risk of chronicity or other complications. Other approaches, such as watchful waiting, suturing, or relying solely on topical antiseptics, do not address the underlying issues that can keep a wound stuck in this phase. Watchful waiting may lead to an increase in complications, while suturing a non-healed wound may not resolve the underlying issues, potentially leading to wound deh