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

What is the role of Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (Sorbact) in wound care?

1. To promote dry healing

2. To act as an antibiotic dressing

3. To control bacterial growth without harming tissue

4. To speed up granulation

The correct answer is: To control bacterial growth without harming tissue

Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride, commonly known as Sorbact, plays an important role in wound care primarily by controlling bacterial growth without causing harm to the surrounding tissue. It functions through a mechanism that involves the binding of bacteria to the dressing, which traps and removes them from the wound environment. This action helps to reduce the overall bacterial load, thus decreasing the risk of infection. The key benefit of using Sorbact is its biocompatibility; it effectively targets bacteria while preserving the integrity of healthy tissue, making it a valuable option in managing wounds, particularly those at risk for or already exhibiting signs of infection. In the context of the other options provided, while promoting dry healing may be beneficial for certain types of wounds, it does not specifically describe the direct action of Sorbact. Similarly, while it might be thought of as having antibiotic properties due to its bacteriostatic effects, it does not release antibiotics into the wound bed; rather, it utilizes a physical mechanism to achieve its antimicrobial effect. Finally, the promotion of granulation is a critical aspect of wound healing, yet it is not the primary role of Sorbact; instead, it focuses on wound infection control and maintaining a healthy environment for healing to occur.