Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What defines a fistula?

1. A malignant tumor with no signs of healing

2. An abnormal communication between two organs or skin surface

3. A collection of pus that forms within body tissues

4. An acute inflammation of the connective tissue

The correct answer is: An abnormal communication between two organs or skin surface

A fistula is defined as an abnormal communication between two organs or between an organ and the skin surface. This definition is significant because it highlights the nature of a fistula as an unnatural passage that allows fluids, waste, or air to flow between areas that normally do not connect. Such connections can form due to various conditions, including trauma, inflammation, or surgical complications, and can lead to significant clinical concerns requiring management and treatment. The characteristics of a fistula are crucial for medical professionals to understand, as they impact diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient care strategies. Recognizing a fistula's abnormality is vital for assessing its causes and planning appropriate interventions to address the underlying issues or complications that may arise. Understanding this concept is essential for clinicians specializing in wound and ostomy care, as fistulas can complicate existing conditions and affect the healing process in patients with ostomies or other underlying health issues.