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

What does the term "undermining" refer to in wound care?

1. Formation of new tissue

2. Infection beneath the surface

3. Tissue destruction underlying intact skin along wound margins

4. Fluid accumulation in a wound

The correct answer is: Tissue destruction underlying intact skin along wound margins

The term "undermining" in wound care specifically refers to tissue destruction that occurs beneath the intact skin along the edges of a wound. This process can result in the formation of a cavity or pocket under the skin's surface, which can potentially complicate the healing process. It is typically assessed during a wound evaluation, where a healthcare provider may identify this phenomenon by gently probing the wound margins. Understanding undermining is crucial for proper wound management, as it affects how the wound is treated, how infection risks are managed, and the overall approach to wound healing. It helps clinicians determine the appropriate interventions and care strategies to promote effective healing and prevent complications, such as deeper tissue damage or infection. In contrast, other terms such as formation of new tissue, which indicates the healing aspect of wounds, or infection beneath the surface, which involves different clinical considerations, do not accurately capture the specific dynamics of undermining. Fluid accumulation in a wound, while relevant in wound assessment, refers to exudate or fluid build-up, rather than the structural aspect of tissue loss underneath the skin's surface. Therefore, the description of undermining specifically highlights the critical issue of structural integrity and the need for targeted interventions in wound care management.