The term 'evisceration' means:

DSSSB 14 August 2024

Medical Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024

Explanation

Evisceration is a serious surgical complication where internal organs (viscera) protrude through a surgical incision.
This occurs when the wound layers, including the fascia, separate completely, allowing abdominal contents to exit the body.
It is considered a surgical emergency requiring immediate intervention to prevent organ damage, infection, and shock.
The key differentiator from dehiscence is the actual protrusion of organs, not just the separation of wound edges.

Option A: This is the definition of wound dehiscence, which is the separation of wound layers without the protrusion of internal organs. While dehiscence can lead to evisceration, it is a separate and less severe complication.
Option C: This describes a wound infection, also known as suppuration. It is characterized by the presence of purulent drainage (pus) and is a different type of wound complication.
Option D: This describes the normal, expected process of wound healing by primary intention, where the edges of a clean surgical incision are approximated and heal with minimal scarring. It is the opposite of a complication.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Post-surgical wound complications as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Recognizing evisceration is a critical nursing skill. Immediate and correct intervention can prevent life-threatening complications such as organ necrosis, peritonitis, and septic shock.
A nurse must never attempt to reinsert protruding organs, as this can cause further injury and severe infection. The priority is to protect the exposed organs with sterile, moist dressings and notify the surgical team immediately.
What if? If a patient reports a 'popping' sensation and you see a sudden gush of serosanguineous fluid from the wound, but no organs are visible, the answer changes. This is characteristic of dehiscence. While still serious and requiring immediate surgeon notification, the immediate action is to cover the wound with a sterile dressing and place the patient in a low Fowler's position, without the urgent need to protect exposed organs from drying.

How to Approach the Question

This is a definition-based recall question. Start by identifying the key term in the question: 'evisceration'.
Access your knowledge of post-surgical complications. The prefix 'e-' means 'out,' and 'viscera' refers to internal organs. This helps deduce the meaning: organs coming out.
Evaluate each option against this definition.
Option B directly matches the definition of organs protruding through a wound.
Differentiate this from Option A, 'separation of wound edges,' which defines the related but distinct term 'dehiscence'.
Eliminate options C and D as they describe infection and normal healing, respectively, which are clearly different concepts.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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