During wound care, the nurse applies Elase to a patient with third-degree burns. What type of wound debridement is being used?

Elase is a brand name for an enzymatic debriding agent that contains collagenase derived from Clostridium histolyticum. When applied to a wound, it works by breaking down and removing devitalized tissue through a chemical process. This method specifically targets necrotic tissue while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue, making it particularly useful in managing complex wounds such as third-degree burns.

Enzymatic debridement is advantageous because it can be applied directly to the wound bed and is generally less painful than other methods like mechanical debridement, which involves physical removal of tissue. By using Elase, the nurse is utilizing a targeted approach to facilitate wound healing in a safe and effective manner.

Understanding the distinction among various types of debridement is crucial in wound care management; enzymatic methods can be preferred in cases where maintaining healthy tissue and minimizing pain are priorities for patient comfort and recovery.