Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

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A fistula that has an abscess would be classified as what type?

simple fistula
complex fistula
high output fistula
low output fistula

The correct answer is: complex fistula

A fistula that has an abscess is classified as a complex fistula. This classification is based on the characteristics of the fistula and the surrounding complications present. A complex fistula typically refers to those that are associated with additional features such as abscess formation, significant surrounding tissue damage, or involvement of multiple tracts. The presence of an abscess indicates that there is an infection or significant complication that complicates treatment and management of the fistula itself. In contrast, a simple fistula would not have these additional complications. High-output and low-output classifications refer to the volume of output from the fistula rather than its complexity, thus confirming that the presence of an abscess aligns with the definition of a complex fistula.