Module 7: Wound Closure and Healing 

🎯 Module Objectives 

1. Describe the anatomic features and functions of skin. 
2. Identify different methods for closing wounds and describe the benefits and drawbacks of each. 
3. Describe the phases of wound healing. 
4. Explain the differences in healing by primary, secondary, or tertiary intention. 
5. Utilize the wound classification system to classify a surgical wound. 
6. Describe factors which might affect wound healing. 
7. Describe methods of preventing surgical site infection. 

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📖 Required Readings 

AORN Periop 101 video
CineMed Video 1972: Wound Care and Healing in Perioperative Practice (2014)

Alexander’s care of the patient in surgery
16th Ed. p 176-186; ch 9 244-260
17th Ed. p 174-184; ch 9 241-255

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Introduction 

This module covers the several types of wounds seen in the perioperative setting and the different methods of wound closures and modalities. It is important for perioperative nurses to have a thorough knowledge of wounds in the OR, wound closure methods, wound healing, and the prevention of surgical site infections. Nurses may build on this knowledge to anticipate wound closure methods that may be used in a particular surgery.