True or False: A wound with exposed bone should always be cultured due to the possibility of osteomyelitis.

The statement that a wound with exposed bone should always be cultured due to the possibility of osteomyelitis is accurate. When there is a wound that exposes bone, it creates a significant risk for infection and osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone itself. Culturing such wounds is important to identify the specific pathogens involved, which can inform appropriate antibiotic therapy and other treatment modalities. Since osteomyelitis can lead to severe complications and may require surgical intervention, obtaining a culture helps ensure that the correct and effective treatment plan is implemented promptly. This proactive approach in management minimizes the risks associated with bone infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly.

The other options suggest conditions under which culturing might not be necessary, but the presence of exposed bone inherently raises the suspicion for potential infection, warranting a culture regardless of other factors like pain or location. Such prevention-focused actions are crucial in managing geriatric patients, who may have compromised immune systems or other comorbidities.