The nurse is completing a head-to-toe assessment and notices a wound on the patient's trochanter. The patient winces when the area is palpated, and there is minimal slough with visible subcutaneous tissue. How should the nurse stage this wound?
Stage 1 pressure ulcer
Stage 4 pressure ulcer
Stage 2 pressure ulcer
Stage 3 pressure ulcer
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. A Stage 1 pressure ulcer is characterized by intact skin with non-blanchable redness; it does not involve any tissue loss or visible subcutaneous tissue, which is present in this case.
B. A Stage 4 pressure ulcer involves full-thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, muscle, or tendon; while this wound has visible subcutaneous tissue, it does not exhibit the depth or extent associated with Stage 4.
C. A Stage 2 pressure ulcer is defined by partial-thickness skin loss involving the epidermis and possibly the dermis, presenting as a blister or abrasion. This wound shows more depth and visible subcutaneous tissue, which indicates it is deeper than a Stage 2.
D. A Stage 3 pressure ulcer involves full-thickness skin loss, with visible fat and possible slough. The presence of minimal slough and visible subcutaneous tissue in this wound aligns with the characteristics of a Stage 3 ulcer.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A quadriplegic client is at high risk for pressure injuries due to immobility and lack of sensation, which can lead to prolonged pressure on skin and tissues.
B. A Braden Scale score of 7 indicates severe risk for pressure injuries. The lower the Braden score, the higher the risk, with scores less than 9 signifying very high risk.
C. A client with controlled diabetes who is ambulating frequently is not at high risk for pressure injuries because mobility reduces the risk of sustained pressure.
D. A BMI of 13.6 indicates severe underweight status, and incontinence of stool increases moisture, both of which elevate the risk of pressure injuries. Additionally, the splint on the leg may create pressure points.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A wet-to-dry dressing is typically used for debridement and is not appropriate for a shallow pressure ulcer without necrotic tissue, as it can damage healthy tissue during dressing changes.
B. Leaving the area without a dressing is not advisable as it exposes the wound to contaminants and increases the risk of infection; a dressing should be used to protect the area.
C. A hydrocolloid dressing is ideal for shallow partial-thickness wounds as it provides a moist environment, promotes healing, and helps to cushion the area while maintaining a barrier against bacteria.
D. Alginate dressings are primarily used for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate and would not be suitable in this case due to the lack of drainage.