What is a potential complication when assessing a wound?

When assessing a wound, the risk of autoinoculation is a significant concern. Autoinoculation occurs when bacteria or infectious agents from one area of the body are transferred to the wound site, potentially leading to an infection. During the assessment, if aseptic techniques are not strictly followed, a healthcare professional might inadvertently introduce pathogens from their hands or the surrounding skin into the wound. This scenario emphasizes the importance of proper hand hygiene and the use of appropriate sterile techniques during wound assessments to reduce the likelihood of introducing infections.

While creation of new wounds and hematoma formation may occur in some situations, they are not typical complications directly associated with the act of wound assessment. Increased mobility is generally not a complication of wound assessment but rather a characteristic that might be encouraged depending on the wound's nature and healing stage.