What term should the nurse use to describe black tissue noted in the wound bed?

The appropriate term to describe black tissue observed in the wound bed is eschar. Eschar refers specifically to dead and necrotic tissue that is thick and typically dark in color. This type of tissue forms as a result of the body’s response to injury or infection and can prevent effective healing if not adequately addressed.

In the context of wound healing, eschar can serve as a protective layer, but it also may hinder new tissue formation and require debridement to facilitate proper healing. Understanding the characteristics of eschar is critical for healthcare professionals in order to implement appropriate wound care strategies.

Other terms, such as slough, describe softer, yellow or cream-colored dead tissue that may be present in a wound but does not indicate the same severity as eschar. Epithelial refers to the tissue that forms over the wound as it heals, and granulating refers to the healthy new tissue that fills in the wound, indicating positive healing processes. However, eschar remains distinct as it signals necrotic tissue that needs attention.