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Wound Dehiscence and Evisceration — NCLEX Cheat Sheet

Organs out = cover sterile saline

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👤 By the CinnaRN Clinical Content Team 🕐 Updated 2026-07-11 🏷️ Physiological Adaptation 🔖 Free to read, print, and share

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Use this quick-reference guide to spot, treat, and prevent Wound Dehiscence and Evisceration on the NCLEX. Keep it handy during review and on exam day!

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Define

Key facts

Dehiscence = edges separate
Evisceration = organs protrude

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Signs

What to look for

Sudden gush serosanguineous drain
Pt 'something gave way'

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Do

Nursing actions

Cover sterile saline gauze
Low-Fowler, knees flexed
Call surgeon, NPO, stay calm

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Avoid

Key facts

NEVER push organs back in
Dry gauze on organs

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Quick Tip

Risk factors include obesity, poor nutrition, infection, diabetes, smoking, and increased abdominal pressure.

📖 Related Topics

Hypokalemia Hyperkalemia Hyponatremia Heart Failure

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