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

What is a significant characteristic of the pain associated with pyoderma gangrenosum?

1. Pain is mild and easily managed.

2. Pain is extremely severe and often worsens with trauma.

3. Pain is absent, and lesions are generally asymptomatic.

4. Pain levels are comparable to typical abrasions.

The correct answer is: Pain is extremely severe and often worsens with trauma.

The pain associated with pyoderma gangrenosum is notably characterized as extremely severe and often exacerbated by trauma. This severe pain can present as spontaneous, meaning it may occur without any apparent cause, and is often associated with the erythematous and ulcerative skin lesions that characterize this condition. Patients with pyoderma gangrenosum frequently report heightened sensitivity and distress, particularly when the affected areas are touched or disturbed. This intense response to trauma can make management challenging, as even minor interventions can lead to significant worsening of pain and further damage to already fragile tissue. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for healthcare providers to appropriately manage pain and provide effective care for patients suffering from this condition.