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

What approach is least effective in treating pyoderma gangrenosum?

1. Immediate surgical debridement

2. Systemic steroids

3. Pain management

4. Topical wound care

The correct answer is: Immediate surgical debridement

The least effective approach for treating pyoderma gangrenosum is immediate surgical debridement because the condition is characterized by a non-infectious ulcerative process that can be exacerbated by surgical intervention. Deeper tissue debridement can lead to further tissue damage and may worsen the condition. Pyoderma gangrenosum often requires a careful, conservative management strategy that prioritizes controlling inflammation and promoting healing, rather than aggressive surgical measures. In contrast, systemic steroids are commonly effective as they help reduce inflammation associated with the disease. Pain management is crucial for patient comfort, as the lesions can be quite painful. Topical wound care plays a supportive role in maintaining the integrity of the wound environment but does not address the underlying inflammatory condition as effectively as systemic treatments. Therefore, while other options focus on managing symptoms and treating the underlying causes, immediate surgical debridement typically does not yield favorable outcomes.