9/3/2023 0 Comments Undermine definitionClock terms can also be used to describe the location of undermining. The distance from the probe tip to the point at which the probe is level with the wound edge represents the amount of undermining present. Undermining is measured directly under the wound edge with a probe held almost parallel to the wound surface, stopping when resistance is felt. Much like an iceberg, what you see on the surface is not indicative of what lies below. Undermining is caused by erosion under the wound edges, resulting in a large wound with a small opening. Tunneling can occur in any wound, but it occurs most commonly in surgical wounds and wounds occurring from a neuropathic cause. This is helpful in identifying and remeasuring tunnel depth at a later time in order to assess progress of wound healing. Clock terms are often used to describe the position of the tunnel within the wound bed. The distance from the tip of the probe to the point at which the probe is level with the wound edge represents the depth of the tunnel. To measure tunneling, a probe is gently inserted into the passageway until resistance is felt. Tunneling results in dead space that has the potential for abscess formation. Tunneling is caused by destruction of the fascial planes which results in a narrow passageway. If you are unsure what tunneling and undermining are and how to recognize these phenomena, here's an explanation of these terms and how to assess wounds for their presence. By Laurie Swezey RN, BSN, CWOCN, CWS, FACCWSĪs part of a thorough wound assessment, in addition to noting location and measuring size, the entire wound bed should be probed for the presence of tunneling and/or undermining.
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