Chapter 38 Wound Care
OVERVIEW.
Wound care may incorporate debridement techniques. Debridement is the procedure of removing devitalized tissue (and foreign matter) from a wound. Moist devitalized tissue supports the growth of pathological organisms, initiates an inflammatory response, and retards wound healing. The removal of devitalized tissue is considered necessary for wounds to heal.1
CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
DEBRIDEMENT
Autolytic Debridement (AD)
Autolytic debridement uses moisture-retentive synthetic dressing, permitting devitalized tissue to self-digest from enzymes normally in the wound. AD is indicated when the patient may not tolerate other forms of debridement and would not become infected if the wound was not debrided using faster methods. AD takes longer than other methods.1
S00-T98 INJURY, POISONING, AND CERTAIN OTHER CONSEQUENCES OF EXTERNAL CAUSES
PROCEDURAL CONCERN
Enzymatic Debridement
Topical debriding enzymatic agents are applied to the wound surface of devitalized tissue and are considered if ulcer is not infected, individuals are in LTC facilities or at home or if surgery cannot be tolerated.1
S00-T98 INJURY, POISONING, AND CERTAIN OTHER CONSEQUENCES OF EXTERNAL CAUSES