Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What treatment is commonly used to block calcium and phosphate deposits in calciphylaxis?

1. Oral vitamin D

2. Sodium thiosulfate infusion

3. Antibiotic therapy

4. Intravenous potassium

The correct answer is: Sodium thiosulfate infusion

Sodium thiosulfate infusion is utilized in the treatment of calciphylaxis primarily for its ability to act as a chelating agent that helps to reduce the deposition of calcium and phosphate in tissues. Calciphylaxis is a serious condition characterized by calcification of blood vessels, leading to ischemic skin necrosis and ulceration, especially in patients with end-stage renal disease or other metabolic disorders. Sodium thiosulfate works by binding to calcium and facilitating its removal from the tissues, thus alleviating some of the symptoms and complications associated with this condition. This intervention has shown beneficial effects in managing patients suffering from calciphylaxis, making it a commonly accepted treatment option. Other treatment options like oral vitamin D are typically aimed at managing levels of vitamin D and calcium metabolism, rather than actively treating the deposits associated with calciphylaxis. Antibiotic therapy, while useful for secondary infections that may arise due to skin ulcers in calciphylaxis, does not address the fundamental issue of calcium and phosphate deposits. Intravenous potassium is unrelated as it pertains to electrolyte management rather than the treatment of calciphylaxis.