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

What is eschar?

1. Granulation tissue

2. Thick, leathery, necrotic tissue

3. Hyperemia

4. Fibrinous exudate

The correct answer is: Thick, leathery, necrotic tissue

Eschar refers to thick, leathery, necrotic tissue that forms as a result of tissue death due to a lack of blood flow, infection, or injury. This type of tissue is often dry, hard, and can appear black or brown in color. In wound care, recognizing eschar is important since it can impede healing and may require debridement to promote the growth of healthy tissue and facilitate the healing process. The other options characterize different aspects of wound healing or tissue response: granulation tissue is a sign of healing, indicating the presence of new connective tissue and blood vessels; hyperemia refers to increased blood flow to an area, often resulting in redness and warmth; and fibrinous exudate is a type of fluid that contains fibrinogen and forms a protective layer over injury sites but does not indicate necrosis. Understanding these distinct terms helps in the accurate assessment and management of wounds.