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

Using HBOT can increase the effectiveness of which type of treatment?

1. Physical therapy

2. Antibiotic therapy

3. Facial therapy

4. Pain management therapy

The correct answer is: Antibiotic therapy

The use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has been shown to enhance the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy, particularly in the management of certain infections. HBOT functions by delivering high concentrations of oxygen to tissues, which significantly improves the oxygenation of hypoxic areas. This increased oxygen availability can enhance the killing effects of antibiotics, especially against anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in low-oxygen environments. Additionally, the elevated oxygen levels can promote better circulation and stimulate the body's natural healing processes, further aiding recovery from infections where antibiotics are indicated. This synergistic effect underscores the rationale for utilizing HBOT as an adjunct treatment in various types of infections, especially those associated with wounds, osteomyelitis, or compromised blood supply. While the other treatment modalities listed may have benefits in their respective fields, they do not directly benefit from the applications of HBOT in the same way that antibiotic therapy does. Physical therapy focuses on rehabilitation and movement, facial therapy mainly targets aesthetic or dermatological conditions without the direct influence of oxygen concentration, and pain management therapy may utilize various methods that don't leverage oxygen's therapeutic effects on bacterial infections.