Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Wound Care and Soft Tissue Management Flashcards

Which classification system is the international standard for staging pressure injuries by depth of tissue involvement?

Answer: NPIAP/EPUAP pressure injury classification

The NPIAP/EPUAP pressure injury staging system defines four stages plus two additional unstageable categories based on tissue depth and wound characteristics.

Acute compartment syndrome is definitively confirmed by which diagnostic method?

Answer: Direct compartment pressure measurement

Direct intracompartmental pressure measurement is the definitive diagnostic tool for compartment syndrome, with fasciotomy indicated when pressures exceed safe thresholds.

The classic '5 P's' of compartment syndrome include Pain, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paresthesia, and which fifth sign?

Answer: Paralysis

The five P's — Pain (worst with passive stretch), Pallor, Pulselessness, Paresthesia, and Paralysis — characterize compartment syndrome, with paralysis and pulselessness being late, ominous signs.

Which dressing type is most appropriate for managing a heavily exudating orthopaedic wound?

Answer: Alginate dressing

Alginate dressings are highly absorbent and ideal for heavily exudating wounds; they form a moist gel on contact with exudate, supporting an optimal healing environment.

What is the correct technique for wound irrigation using normal saline in orthopaedic wound care?

Answer: Gentle low-pressure irrigation flowing from center outward

Wound irrigation should use gentle pressure (5–15 psi) directed from the center outward to remove debris without traumatizing tissue or spreading contamination to clean areas.

Which skin complication commonly results from prolonged exposure to moisture under casts or dressings?

Answer: Maceration

Maceration occurs when skin is overexposed to moisture from perspiration or wound exudate, causing softening, breakdown, and increased susceptibility to infection.