Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

What is commonly necessary if clinical signs of infection are not noted during delayed closure?

1. The wound is left open indefinitely

2. The wound is irrigated abundantly

3. The wound is closed surgically

4. The wound is dressed and monitored

The correct answer is: The wound is closed surgically

In the context of delayed closure in surgical practice, the main goal is to allow for proper assessment of the wound for signs of infection before deciding on definitive closure. If clinical signs of infection are not noted, the most appropriate action is to proceed with surgical closure of the wound. This is because successful delayed closure is reliant on the absence of infection, and if the assessment indicates that there are no infection signs, it is safe and beneficial to close the wound surgically. This helps promote healing and reduces the chance of complications that could arise from prolonged wound exposure to the environment. Leaving the wound open indefinitely is generally not advisable, as it can lead to increased risk of infection and delayed healing. While abundant irrigation might be necessary in certain cases with visible contamination or dirt, it is not routinely performed when there are no signs of infection. Dressing and monitoring the wound is a part of the process; however, if there are no signs of infection, a more proactive approach such as surgical closure is warranted to facilitate healing. Thus, proceeding to close the wound surgically is the most appropriate step in a scenario where infection is absent.