Which wound management technique is used to drain a localized infection, such as an abscess?

Which wound management technique is used to drain a localized infection, such as an abscess?

• A. Dressing change
• B. Incision and drainage
• C. Primary closure
• D. Tourniquet placement

Answer: (B)

When a localized infection like an abscess forms, the key issue is the buildup of pus that needs to be removed to relieve pressure and lower the bacterial load. Incision and drainage creates a controlled opening that allows pus to escape, to be irrigated, and for the cavity to begin healing. This direct removal of the infected material is what makes it the best choice for treating an abscess, converting a closed, infected pocket into a drained wound that can heal cleanly. Dressing changes are important for wound care, but they don’t address the core problem of draining an abscess. Primary closure would trap infection inside and could worsen the infection. A tourniquet is used to control bleeding, not to manage infection.

When a localized infection like an abscess forms, the key issue is the buildup of pus that needs to be removed to relieve pressure and lower the bacterial load. Incision and drainage creates a controlled opening that allows pus to escape, to be irrigated, and for the cavity to begin healing. This direct removal of the infected material is what makes it the best choice for treating an abscess, converting a closed, infected pocket into a drained wound that can heal cleanly.

Dressing changes are important for wound care, but they don’t address the core problem of draining an abscess. Primary closure would trap infection inside and could worsen the infection. A tourniquet is used to control bleeding, not to manage infection.