OSCE Wound Care and Dressings

Question 1

When assessing a wound in an OSCE, which mnemonic is commonly used to structure wound assessment documentation?

Accepted Answer

TIMES: Tissue, Infection/Inflammation, Moisture, Edge, Surrounding skin

Answer

The TIMES framework provides a structured approach to wound assessment: Tissue type, signs of Infection/Inflammation, Moisture balance, wound Edge condition, and Surrounding skin.

Question 2

Which wound dressing is most appropriate for a wound with moderate-to-heavy exudate?

Accepted Answer

Alginate or foam dressing — high absorbency manages heavy exudate

Answer

Alginate and foam dressings have high absorptive capacity and are designed for moderate-to-heavy exuding wounds.

Question 3

What is the correct classification for a pressure ulcer where full-thickness skin loss exposes subcutaneous fat but bone, tendon, and muscle are not visible?

Accepted Answer

Category/Stage 3 pressure ulcer

Answer

Category 3 pressure ulcers involve full-thickness skin loss with visible subcutaneous fat, but without exposed bone, tendon, or muscle.

Question 4

Before applying a sterile dressing in an OSCE, what is the most critical infection-prevention step?

Accepted Answer

Performing hand hygiene and applying sterile/non-touch technique throughout the procedure

Answer

Hand hygiene (before and after) combined with an aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT) prevents wound contamination and reduces healthcare-associated infection risk.

Question 5

What does 'wound debridement' mean, and why is it important for wound healing?

Accepted Answer

Removal of non-viable (necrotic/sloughy) tissue to convert a chronic wound into an acute healing environment

Answer

Debridement removes necrotic tissue, slough, bacteria, and biofilm that impede healing, creating a viable wound bed that supports the healing cascade.

OSCE Practice Test

OSCE Practice Test

OSCE Wound Care and Dressings