Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

What should be assessed before closing a wound intentionally left open for delayed closure?

1. Wound size

2. Clinical signs of infection

3. Patient's pain levels

4. Wound color

The correct answer is: Clinical signs of infection

Before closing a wound that has been intentionally left open for delayed closure, assessing clinical signs of infection is crucial. If an infection is present, closing the wound can trap bacteria and lead to further complications, including abscess formation. Signs of infection may include increased redness, swelling, warmth at the site, and purulent drainage. Identifying these indicators prior to closure ensures that appropriate measures can be taken, such as initiating antibiotic therapy or providing further wound care interventions. While assessing wound size, the patient's pain levels, and wound color may provide valuable information about the wound's healing progress, they do not directly address the immediate risk of infection, which can significantly impact patient outcomes and the success of the wound closure. Therefore, the assessment of clinical signs of infection is the most critical factor before proceeding with closure.