RN Exam Practice
Safety and Infection ControlQuestion 390 of 2368

The nurse is measuring tunneling in a client's full-thickness wound using a sterile cotton-tipped applicator. Which technique is correct?

  1. Insert the swab as deeply as possible, then pull it out quickly
  2. Push the swab firmly until the end of the tract is reached
  3. Insert the swab and rotate it vigorously to open the tract
  4. Insert the swab only until resistance is felt without forcing it
Show answer

Correct answer: Insert the swab only until resistance is felt without forcing it

Forcing the swab can cause further damage, so it is inserted gently only until resistance is felt.

Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Wound Care: Wound Size. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Safety and Infection Control"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026