American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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What is the role of debridement in the treatment of pressure ulcers?

To promote surface healing only
To remove nonviable tissue
To accelerate growth of new skin
To sterilize the wound

The correct answer is: To remove nonviable tissue

Debridement plays a crucial role in the treatment of pressure ulcers by removing nonviable tissue from the wound. Nonviable tissue can consist of devitalized tissue, necrotic material, or slough, all of which can impede healing and provide a medium for bacterial growth. By eliminating this nonviable tissue, debridement creates a cleaner wound bed that can better support the body's natural healing processes. This process promotes the formation of granulation tissue and provides a healthier environment for new tissue to grow. Additionally, by removing obstructive and unhealthy tissue, debridement can enhance the effectiveness of topical treatments and contribute to better overall wound management. While debridement does indeed aid in surface healing and can also indirectly promote the growth of new skin by creating an optimal healing environment, its primary function is focused on the removal of nonviable tissue. Sterilization of the wound is not the primary aim of debridement; rather, it is intended to manage tissue quality and facilitate healing.