Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA) Practice Exam

When debriding a wound covered with dry black eschar using an enzyme, the first step involves crosshatching through the outer layers of the eschar. This initial action helps create a series of incisions or scores within the eschar, allowing the enzyme to penetrate more effectively. Enzymatic debridement relies on the presence of moisture and the enzymatic action to assist in breaking down the necrotic tissue. By crosshatching, you enhance the surface area that the enzyme can access, which can lead to more efficient and effective results.

The other choices do involve methods of wound management or preparation but do not serve as the appropriate first step in this specific scenario. Applying a wet dressing or soaking the eschar might help moisten the area but doesn't facilitate the penetration of the enzyme as effectively as crosshatching does. Using a scalpel to excise the eschar could be a form of debridement but is more invasive and not typically the first line of action with dry eschar when enzyme debridement is planned.