Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What is Dakin's solution primarily used for?

1. Wounds that are clean and healing

2. Wounds that are necrotic and infected

3. For antifungal treatment

4. To decrease inflammation in the wound

The correct answer is: Wounds that are necrotic and infected

Dakin's solution is primarily used for wounds that are necrotic and infected due to its antiseptic properties. It contains sodium hypochlorite, which helps to reduce bacterial load and facilitate the cleansing of the wound. This solution works by breaking down necrotic tissue and promoting a suitable environment for healing by keeping the wound bed free from infectious agents. In contrast, it is not recommended for clean and healing wounds, as its antimicrobial nature can be too harsh and may delay the healing process in such cases. While Dakin's solution has some antimicrobial activity, it is not specifically formulated for antifungal treatment or to reduce inflammation directly; those functions are typically addressed with different types of medications or topical treatments.