Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

The method that best represents a mechanical, nonselective form of debridement suitable for heavily necrotic and infected wounds is wet to dry debridement. This technique involves applying a moist dressing to the wound that is allowed to dry and adhere to the necrotic tissue. When the dressing is removed, it takes away the necrotic tissue with it, allowing for some degree of cleansing of the wound.

Wet to dry debridement is particularly effective for wounds that are heavily contaminated or necrotic, as it can help in the removal of dead tissue and exudate. This process, however, is nonselective and can also impact healthy tissue surrounding the wound, potentially causing additional trauma. The method is less commonly used in contemporary wound care due to advancements in more selective debridement techniques, but it remains an option in certain clinical scenarios where effective removal of debridement is necessary.

In contrast, sharp debridement involves the use of surgical instruments and can be more selective, targeting only the necrotic tissue while preserving healthy tissue. Enzymatic debridement utilizes enzymes to break down necrotic tissue but is considered slower and less aggressive than mechanical methods. Autolytic debridement relies on the body