Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free WCC Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer is normal saline. Silver nitrate is a chemical compound often used in wound care for its antimicrobial properties. However, it can stain tissues and surrounding areas, and when it needs to be neutralized or removed, normal saline is the preferred agent. Normal saline is isotonic with body fluids, making it effective for rinsing the area without causing cellular damage or irritation.

Sodium bicarbonate, while it can neutralize certain acidic compounds, does not specifically act on silver nitrate and could potentially create unwanted reactions. Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizer and can cause irritation or further damage when used on wounds treated with silver nitrate. Distilled water, although free from impurities, lacks the physiological balance present in normal saline and may not effectively neutralize or wash away silver nitrate without adverse effects. Thus, normal saline is the most appropriate choice for neutralizing and cleaning the area of concern.