Moist heat has the physiological effect of:

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Leaving nonbleeding wounds open to air increases the risk of infection and delayed healing. Wounds need a moist environment to promote cell migration and collagen synthesis, essential for the initial inflammatory phase of healing.

Choice B rationale: Corticosteroids suppress the immune response and inflammation, which can delay wound healing. They inhibit leukocyte migration and fibroblast proliferation, which are crucial during the initial stage of the healing process.

Choice C rationale: Mechanical debridement is typically used for chronic wounds with necrotic tissue. In the initial stage of wound healing, it is not necessary and could damage newly formed tissue, delaying the healing process.

Choice D rationale: Oxygen therapy at 2L/min via nasal cannula enhances tissue oxygenation, promoting cellular activities such as collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and leukocyte function, which are critical during the initial inflammatory phase of wound healing.

Choice A rationale:

A pressure injury is a general term for localized damage to the skin and underlying soft tissue, but it doesn’t specify the stage.

Choice B rationale:

Stage 2 pressure injuries involve partial-thickness loss of skin with exposed dermis.

Choice C rationale:

Stage 1 pressure injuries are characterized by a reddened area on the skin that does not blanch with pressure.

Choice D rationale:

Stage 3 pressure injuries involve full-thickness skin loss.

Choice E rationale:

Stage 4 pressure injuries involve full-thickness skin and tissue loss with exposed or directly palpable fascia.