PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What does the term "dirty or infected" imply about preoperative conditions?

1. Wound was clean before surgery

2. Infection was present prior to operation

3. Low risk of infection

4. Wound was sterile

The correct answer is: Infection was present prior to operation

The term "dirty or infected" indicates that there is an existing infection at the surgical site before the operation takes place. In surgical terminology, a "dirty" wound is one that has been contaminated with bacteria, and it often implies that there is ongoing or established infection and possibly necrotic tissue present. This categorization affects the surgical approach, the choice of antibiotics, and overall surgical strategy to ensure efficacy and minimize complications. In contrast, terms like "clean," "sterile," or "low risk" relate to conditions where no infection is present or where the likelihood of infection occurring during or after the procedure is minimal. Recognizing the difference between these classifications is crucial for determining the appropriate perioperative management and interventions required to handle potentially infected or contaminated wounds.