Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

What type of healing does delayed closure cater to?

1. Wounds that heal by primary intention

2. Wounds with significant tissue loss

3. Wounds at risk of infection

4. Wounds with minimal drainage

The correct answer is: Wounds at risk of infection

Delayed closure is a surgical technique primarily used for wounds that are at risk of infection. This method involves leaving the wound open for a predetermined period before achieving closure through sutures or other means. The reason this approach is essential for wounds at risk of infection is that it allows for adequate drainage and cleaning of the wound. By initially leaving the wound open, any potential infection can be addressed, and dead tissue can be removed, promoting a healthier environment for healing. In contrast, wounds that heal by primary intention typically close immediately after surgery, with minimal risk for infection as they are often closed with sutures or staples right after tissue approximation. Wounds with significant tissue loss may require additional procedures, such as grafting, rather than delaying closure. Wounds with minimal drainage do not typically necessitate extended healing time as they are generally not at high risk for complications that delayed closure manages. Thus, the answer emphasizes the importance of managing infection risk through the delayed closure method, allowing for better healing outcomes in susceptible wounds.