Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance your readiness for the exam day!

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What symptom might indicate progression to phase 2 of necrotizing fasciitis?

  1. Decreased temperature

  2. Altered mental status

  3. Reduced pain sensation

  4. Persistent redness

The correct answer is: Altered mental status

The indication of progression to phase 2 of necrotizing fasciitis is often signified by altered mental status. This symptom is significant as it can reflect a systemic response to infection, including the potential for sepsis. As necrotizing fasciitis progresses, the body can become overwhelmed by the infection, leading to various physiological changes, including fluctuations in mental status due to infection, hypoperfusion, or toxemia. Altered mental status serves as a warning sign that the infection may be spreading, affecting not just the localized area but also the patient’s overall well-being. It can indicate that the body's defenses are failing and that vital organ function may be at risk. This symptom, therefore, is critical for healthcare providers to monitor because it can guide immediate therapeutic interventions and the need for potential surgical interventions to control the infection. In contrast, decreased temperature, reduced pain sensation, and persistent redness might not specifically signal such critical progression of the condition. These could be indicative of other factors or stages of infection that are not as immediately concerning as altered mental status.