Wound Classification

• What is the goal of treatment for a red wound?

  Gentle cleansing and protection of the wound
• How should wounds be cleaned?

  With normal saline, water, or noncytotoxic cleansers
• What should be done to clean wounds that are granulating and re-epithelializing?

  Keep them slightly moist and protected
• Why is unnecessary manipulation during dressing changes harmful?

  It may destroy new granulation tissue
• What characterizes a yellow wound?

  Presence of nonviable necrotic tissue
• What is the goal of treatment for a yellow wound?

  Absorption of excessive drainage and removal of nonviable tissue
• What should be used to cleanse wounds containing debris that are highly colonized or infected?

  Topical antimicrobials and antiseptics
• What is not recommended for cleaning granulating wounds?

  Topical antimicrobials and antiseptics
• What is a black wound covered with?

  Thick, dry, necrotic tissue called eschar
• How does the amount of necrotic tissue affect the risk of infection in a black wound?

  The risk increases with more necrotic tissue
• What is the immediate treatment for a black wound?

  Removal of the nonviable eschar
• What does the debridement method depend on in a black wound?

  The amount of debris and the condition of the wound
• What type of tissue is associated with a 'red' wound?

  Granulation tissue
• What is the primary care for a 'red' wound?

  Cleanse and apply a moist dressing
• What type of tissue is associated with a 'yellow' wound?

  Slough tissue
• What is the main goal for treating a 'yellow' wound?

  Absorb excess drainage and remove necrotic tissue
• What type of tissue is associated with a 'black' wound?

  Eschar tissue
• What is the treatment approach for a 'black' wound?

  Remove nonviable eschar through debridement
• What are the care strategies for different wound types?

  • 'Red' wound: Cleanse and apply moist dressing
  • 'Yellow' wound: Absorb drainage and remove necrotic tissue
  • 'Black' wound: Debride nonviable eschar