Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is an essential component of managing pyoderma gangrenosum?

1. Immediate surgical intervention

2. Antibiotic therapy

3. Avoidance of trauma to the lesions

4. Frequent cleansing with antiseptic solutions

The correct answer is: Avoidance of trauma to the lesions

In managing pyoderma gangrenosum, avoidance of trauma to the lesions is a critical component. This condition is characterized by painful, ulcerative lesions that can worsen when subjected to trauma or injury. Any form of mechanical irritation, including surgical interventions or even minor abrasions, can exacerbate the lesions and lead to further tissue damage and a more severe disease course. Therefore, protecting the affected areas from injury is key to preventing flare-ups and promoting optimal healing. On the other hand, while antibiotic therapy may be useful for secondary infections, pyoderma gangrenosum itself is not caused by an infection, so antibiotics are not a primary treatment. Immediate surgical interventions can also be detrimental, as surgery may induce trauma to the area, leading to further complications. Frequent cleansing with antiseptic solutions, although helpful in maintaining skin hygiene, does not directly address the underlying issues of pyoderma gangrenosum and may also contribute to irritation if overdone. Thus, emphasizing the importance of trauma avoidance is essential in the management strategy for this condition.