Wound Treatment Associate (WTA) Practice Exam

When assessing a wound, what is a common sign of infection?

1. Increased granulation tissue

2. A decrease in exudate

3. Increased pain

4. Improved wound appearance

The correct answer is: Increased pain

Increased pain is a common sign of infection when assessing a wound because infections typically cause inflammation, which can lead to heightened sensitivity and discomfort in the affected area. When tissue becomes infected, the body's immune response triggers a series of reactions that can result in increased pain, warmth, redness, and swelling around the wound. The presence of infection often alters the normal healing process, creating a situation where the pain levels are elevated as the body fights off the invading pathogens. This heightened sensitivity alerts both the healthcare provider and the patient to the possibility of an infection that may require additional treatment. In comparison, increased granulation tissue is generally a positive sign of healing, indicating that the body is repairing the wound. A decrease in exudate might suggest improved healing or a maturation phase, rather than an infection. Similarly, an improved wound appearance usually indicates that healing is progressing well and does not align with the symptoms of infection, which typically worsen the overall appearance of the wound.