Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Before performing surgical debridement on a patient with cellulitis, what must be done?

1. Administer pain relief

2. Apply a topical antibiotic

3. Treat the cellulitis first

4. Consider no treatment

The correct answer is: Treat the cellulitis first

Before performing surgical debridement on a patient with cellulitis, it’s crucial to first treat the cellulitis itself. This is because cellulitis is an infection of the skin and the underlying soft tissues, and managing the infection medically is essential to address the underlying cause of the condition. If the cellulitis is not treated prior to debridement, there is a heightened risk of complications, such as the spread of infection, inadequate healing, and potential systemic effects. Treating the cellulitis typically involves the use of systemic antibiotics to eradicate the infection and reduce inflammation, allowing for a safer environment for surgical intervention. Taking this step ensures that the surgical procedure is performed under optimal conditions, minimizing the risk of further complications and promoting better healing outcomes.