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

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When should the method of topical therapy be changed?

  1. After one week of treatment

  2. No improvement in two weeks or the wound deteriorates

  3. If the patient requests a different treatment

  4. After three days of treatment

The correct answer is: No improvement in two weeks or the wound deteriorates

The method of topical therapy should be changed if there is no improvement in the wound after two weeks or if the wound deteriorates during treatment. This approach emphasizes the importance of monitoring the wound's progress and the effectiveness of the current treatment over a reasonable time frame. Two weeks is typically an adequate duration to evaluate the effectiveness of a topical agent, as many wounds require time to respond positively. If the treatment is not leading to improvement, it suggests that the current therapy may not be suitable for the specific wound characteristics or patient needs, necessitating a change in strategy. Deterioration of the wound further indicates that the existing treatment is ineffective, highlighting the need for a reassessment and possible alteration of the therapeutic approach to promote healing. By adhering to this guideline, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive the most effective care tailored to their individual wound healing requirements.