Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Certified Wound Care Nurse Exam. Study with flashcards, multiple choice questions, and get hints and explanations. Ensure success in your certification!

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Which variant of topical treatment is typically avoided in the presence of calciphylaxis?

  1. Antibiotic ointments

  2. Hydrogel dressings

  3. Topical corticosteroids

  4. Moisturizing creams

The correct answer is: Topical corticosteroids

In cases of calciphylaxis, the use of topical corticosteroids is typically avoided due to their potential to alter wound healing and suppress local immune response. Calciphylaxis is a condition characterized by calcification of the blood vessels, leading to ischemic skin necrosis and ulceration. Given that the condition involves a compromised vascular supply, maintaining an effective immune response is crucial for any potential healing to occur. Topical corticosteroids can inhibit fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, which are essential processes in wound healing. Maintaining a strong immune response and facilitating the healing process are key considerations in treating calciphylaxis, making topical corticosteroids a less favorable option. Other treatment modalities such as antibiotic ointments, hydrogel dressings, and moisturizing creams may be more suitable, as they do not carry the same risks of inhibiting wound healing or immune function in the context of this complex condition.