Emory Wound Exam with Questions and Answers

It covers key domains which include; Wound Management, Ostomy Care, Continence Care and Professional Practice and Clinical Requirements. A patient in a surgical ward presents with a deteriorating wound showing increased exudate, malodor, and surrounding erythema. The nurse is required to escalate care based on professional practice standards. Which action best reflects appropriate clinical escalation? a. Continue routine dressing changes and reassess in 48 hours b. Document findings and inform the patient only c. Notify the physician or wound care specialist immediately for review d. Apply a different dressing type without further assessment Correct Answer: c Rationale: Escalation of care is a key professional responsibility in wound management. Signs such as increased exudate, odor, and erythema suggest possible infection or deterioration. Clinical guidelines require timely referral to a physician or wound care specialist to prevent complications such as sepsis or delayed healing. Delaying escalation or making independent changes without assessment breaches safe practice standards. A nurse is performing a wound assessment on a pressure injury. Which documentation approach best meets professional and legal clinical requirements? a. “Wound looks better than yesterday” b. “Moderate-sized wound with some improvement noted” c. “Stage 3 pressure injury, 4 cm x 3 cm, 50% slough, serous exudate, surrounding skin intact” d. “Wound healing normally with no concerns” Correct Answer: c Rationale: Professional documentation must be objective, measurable, and standardized. Including wound stage, size, tissue type, exudate, and surrounding skin condition ensures clinical accuracy and legal defensibility. Subjective descriptors such as “better” or “normal” are inadequate for professional records.