What is a potential complication of improper wound care?

Infection leading to delayed healing is a significant complication of improper wound care because when a wound is not cleaned properly or is not adequately protected, pathogens can enter the wound site, leading to infection. An infected wound can cause the body's immune response to become active, which can interfere with the healing process. This results in prolonged inflammation and can delay the formation of new tissue, thus extending the overall healing time. Furthermore, an infection can lead to the breakdown of tissue and increase the risk of severe complications, including systemic issues if the infection spreads.

While scarring, loss of sensation, and excessive granulation can occur due to issues with wound healing, they are generally secondary to infections or inadequate care and are not as immediate or severe as the complications caused by infection. Scarring is a natural part of healing, and loss of sensation is often related to nerve damage rather than wound care specifically. Excessive granulation tissue, while also a concern, typically arises from improper healing rather than a direct result of wound care practices. Hence, the focus on infection highlights a critical aspect of wound management that can severely impact patient outcomes.