Which finding is characteristic of abnormal healing of a wound closed primarily?

• A. Slough tissue in the wound base
• B. A fruity, earthy, or putrid odor
• C. A dry or moist granulation tissue bed
• D. Drainage for more than 3 days after closure

Answer: (D)

In a wound closed primarily, healing should progress with little to no ongoing drainage after the initial postoperative period. If drainage persists for more than a few days—specifically beyond about three days after closure—that signals abnormal healing, often due to infection or the incision starting to dehisce. This ongoing drainage indicates the wound isn’t sealing as expected and needs assessment or intervention.

Slough tissue would reflect necrotic tissue hindering healing, which points to a problematic wound bed rather than the typical course after primary closure. A foul odor can indicate infection but doesn’t define the timing of healing after closure as clearly. A dry or moist granulation tissue bed suggests open healing processes more typical of wounds healing by secondary intention, not a clean primary closure.