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

Which of the following is a local presentation of necrotizing fasciitis?

1. Foul-smelling dishwater drainage

2. Rashes on the body

3. Dry skin

4. Warmth around the wound

The correct answer is: Foul-smelling dishwater drainage

Foul-smelling dishwater drainage is indeed a local presentation of necrotizing fasciitis. This condition is characterized by a rapid and aggressive soft tissue infection that results in the destruction of tissue due to a combination of bacteria. The presence of dishwater-like drainage indicates necrotic tissue and the high bacterial load typically found in such infections. This type of drainage can result from the breakdown of tissues and the release of cellular debris and bacteria, which contributes significantly to the overall clinical picture of necrotizing fasciitis. Warmth around the wound may be present but is more of a general sign of infection rather than specific to necrotizing fasciitis. Rashes on the body are also non-specific and could indicate various other dermatological conditions. Dry skin does not relate to this infection and contrasts with the symptoms typically observed, which suggest inflammation and tissue breakdown.