Inflammation, Wounds, and Pressure Ulcers part 5 Flashcards
What are the complications of wound healing?
infection hemorrhage fistula dehiscence evisceration
What are factors that delay wound healing?
- advanced age
- anemia
- corticosteroid drugs
- diabetes
- inadequate blood supply
- infection
- mechanical friction on wound
- nutritional deficiencies (vitamin C, protein, zinc)
- Obesity
- poor general health
- smoking
What are the factors that would make you think a wound was infected?
- Increased purulent drainage
- pain, erythema (beyond wound margins), swelling
- increased temperature
- increased WBC
- 2 to 7 days after the injury or surgery
What causes complications of a wound hemorrhage?
- slipped suture
- dislodged clot
- infection or erosion of blood vessel
How do you treat a wound complication like hemorrhage?
- check frequently after surgery
- pressure dressing
- packing
- IVF replacement or surgery to treat
What will a hemorrhage cause if hematoma is present?
ischemia (deficiency of blood to an area)
Abnormal passage from an internal organ or vessel to outside of the body or from one internal organ or vessel to another
Fistula
An infection developed to anabscess
Fistula
What does a fistula increase the risk of?
- delayed wound healing
- additional infection
- skin breakdown
- electrolyte imbalance
Partial or total separation of wound layers
“Something has suddenly given way.”
Dehiscence
What is dehiscence caused by?
Infection
Granulation tissue not strong
Obesity
Pocket of fluids
Extrusion of viscera intestine through a surgical wound.
Evisceration
The abdominal wound completely separates protrusion of viscera (internal organs) through incisional area.
Evisceration
What type of wound complication is a medical emergency?
Evisceration
What is the treatment for Evisceration?
- low fowlers
- cover abdominal contents and keep exposed viscera moist
- do not leave patient alone
- provide reassurance
- keep NPO
- IV pain meds as needed
- notify surgeon and PCP immediately
