Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of compression therapy in wound management?

1. Reduce exudate

2. Control infection

3. Enhance blood flow

4. Decrease tissue edema

The correct answer is: Decrease tissue edema

The primary purpose of compression therapy in wound management is to decrease tissue edema. When edema, or the accumulation of excess fluid in tissues, occurs, it can hinder wound healing by restricting blood flow and oxygen delivery to the area, as well as impeding the movement of immune cells that play a crucial role in the healing process. By applying compression, the therapy promotes venous return, helps to reduce swelling, and improves circulation, which collectively contribute to a more favorable environment for wound healing. While controlling infection is important in wound management, it is not the specific aim of compression therapy. Similarly, enhancing blood flow and reducing exudate may be beneficial effects, but they are secondary to the main goal of alleviating edema. The focus of compression therapy is fundamentally about managing fluid in tissues to foster optimal healing conditions.