ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam related questions and content

A client had a hemicolectomy performed two days ago. Today, the nurse assessed the incision and discovered a small part of the abdominal viscera protruding through the incision. This complication of wound healing is known as:

  • A. excoriation.
  • B. dehiscence.
  • C. decortication.
  • D. evisceration.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Excoriation is an abrasion of the epidermis, or of any organ coating of the body, caused by trauma, chemicals, burns, or other causes. Dehiscence is a partial to complete separation of the wound edges with no abdominal tissue protrusion. Decortication is removal of the surface layer of an organ or structure, such as removing the fibrinous peel from the visceral pleura in thoracic surgery. Evisceration occurs when the incision separates and the contents of the cavity spill out.