Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Wound Care and Soft Tissue Management Flashcards

Which of the following suture materials is classified as absorbable and does not require removal?

Answer: Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl)

Vicryl (polyglactin 910) is an absorbable synthetic suture broken down by hydrolysis over approximately 56–70 days, eliminating the need for suture removal.

Before removing a surgical drain from a post-operative orthopaedic wound, what is the most important prerequisite action?

Answer: Confirm a physician order for drain removal

Drain removal must always be performed under a physician's order, as premature removal can lead to hematoma, seroma, or fluid accumulation.

A post-surgical hematoma forming beneath a wound should be managed by which action?

Answer: Notifying the surgeon immediately

A surgical hematoma requires prompt surgeon notification, as evacuation may be needed to prevent wound dehiscence, pressure necrosis, or secondary infection.

Which clinical finding is the defining characteristic of wound dehiscence?

Answer: Separation of wound edges

Wound dehiscence is defined as partial or complete separation of previously approximated wound edges, representing a failure of the wound healing process.

In the RICE protocol for acute soft tissue injuries, what does the letter 'E' stand for?

Answer: Elevation

RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is the standard initial management for acute soft tissue injuries, with elevation reducing swelling via gravity-assisted venous drainage.

Which type of abnormal scar is characterized by excessive collagen growth that extends beyond the original wound boundary?

Answer: Keloid

A keloid grows beyond the original wound margins due to excessive collagen deposition and does not regress spontaneously, unlike hypertrophic scars which stay within wound boundaries.