Gangrene

Definition

Gangrene is the death (necrosis) of body tissue, usually from lack of blood flow or serious bacterial infection. It is a medical emergency requiring urgent intervention.

Types

• Dry gangrene: Gradual loss of blood flow; tissue becomes dry, black, mummified, such as common in diabetes, PAD.
• Wet gangrene: Bacterial infection with pus and foul odor; rapidly progresses.
• Gas gangrene (clostridial myonecrosis): Life-threatening Clostridium perfringens infection with gas production in tissue, such as crepitus, severe pain, rapid progression.
• Fournier gangrene: Necrotizing fasciitis of perineum.

Nursing Interventions

Monitor wounds in high-risk patients (diabetes, PAD). Administer IV antibiotics (broad-spectrum), provide wound care, prepare for surgical debridement or amputation. Hyperbaric oxygen for gas gangrene. Sepsis monitoring.

NCLEX Relevance

Gas gangrene is a surgical emergency with crepitus and rapidly progressing pain. Diabetes + foot wound is a classic setup.