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

What is the potential cause of systemic symptoms associated with vasculitic ulcers?

1. Poor wound care management

2. Immunologic response or drug reaction

3. Circumference measurement of the limb

4. Insufficient nutrition

The correct answer is: Immunologic response or drug reaction

The potential cause of systemic symptoms associated with vasculitic ulcers is an immunologic response or drug reaction. Vasculitis refers to the inflammation of blood vessels, and this condition can provoke systemic symptoms due to the body's immune response. When blood vessels become inflamed, it can lead to a cascade of immune system reactions, which may manifest as systemic symptoms like fever, malaise, or fatigue. These symptoms stem from the release of inflammatory mediators that affect the entire body. Furthermore, certain medications can induce vasculitic reactions, leading to similar systemic effects. In contrast, options such as poor wound care management might contribute to local complications like infection but are less likely to be the direct cause of systemic symptoms. Circumference measurement of the limb is primarily a diagnostic tool and does not directly relate to systemic inflammation. Insufficient nutrition can affect wound healing and overall health but does not specifically account for the systemic symptoms seen in vasculitic conditions. Thus, understanding the immunologic underpinnings of vasculitis is crucial in recognizing the systemic involvement associated with these ulcers.