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

What describes ultrasonic debridement?

1. It uses chemicals to break down tissue

2. It employs saline mist and cavitation to remove tissue

3. It relies on manual scraping of the wound

4. It involves soaking the wound in water

The correct answer is: It employs saline mist and cavitation to remove tissue

Ultrasonic debridement is characterized by its use of high-frequency sound waves to create microscopic bubbles in a saline solution, which is then directed onto the wound. This process, known as cavitation, generates a gentle yet effective means of breaking down devitalized tissue, bacteria, and biofilm. The saline mist aids in the gentle removal of these tissues without causing trauma to the surrounding healthy tissue, making it particularly useful for complex wounds where traditional methods may be more invasive. This method contrasts with the other options presented. The first option, which involves chemical agents, is not aligned with ultrasonic debridement as it does not employ chemical breakdown processes. The reliance on manual scraping of the wound, as mentioned in the third option, describes a more traditional and direct form of debridement but does not encapsulate the non-invasive nature of ultrasonic techniques. The last option involving soaking the wound in water is also incorrect, as ultrasonic debridement operates through a targeted application of sound waves rather than immersion. Thus, option B aptly captures the essence of ultrasonic debridement and how it functions effectively in wound management.