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

Who is autolytic debridement primarily recommended for?

1. Patients with healthy granulation tissue

2. Patients with dry eschar or limited avascular tissue

3. Patients with chronic pain conditions

4. Patients undergoing surgical interventions

The correct answer is: Patients with dry eschar or limited avascular tissue

Autolytic debridement is a wound healing process that allows the body to break down and remove necrotic tissue naturally by utilizing the body’s own enzymes and moisture. This method is particularly beneficial for patients with dry eschar or limited avascular tissue because it works best in a moist environment that can enhance the body's natural healing process. In patients with dry eschar, which is often tough and adherent, autolytic debridement can facilitate the breakdown of this dead tissue without the need for more aggressive interventions that might cause pain or trauma. Limited avascular tissue, where blood flow is restricted, indicates that natural healing processes might be impaired; therefore, a gentle technique like autolytic debridement is appropriate and effective for promoting healing while minimizing discomfort. Other candidate groups, such as those with healthy granulation tissue, may not benefit from autolytic debridement as it is intended primarily for non-viable tissues. Similarly, patients with chronic pain conditions might require different approaches that focus on pain management rather than a specific debridement method. Finally, those undergoing surgical interventions usually need more direct methods of debridement or intervention. Thus, the suitability of autolytic debridement aligns well with the conditions described