A nurse is admitting an elderly client into a unit. During the initial assessment, the nurse notes an erythematous wound with partial-thickness skin loss. The wound does not contain slough and is located on the patient's right heel. How will the nurse stage this pressure ulcer?
Stage I Pressure ulcer.
Stage II Pressure ulcer.
Stage IV Pressure ulcer.
Stage II Pressure ulcer.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Stage I Pressure ulcer - This choice is not correct because a Stage I pressure ulcer is characterized by intact skin with non-blanchable redness over a bony prominence. There is no partial-thickness skin loss at this stage.
Choice B rationale:
Stage II Pressure ulcer - This is the correct choice. A Stage II pressure ulcer involves partial-thickness skin loss that presents as a shallow open ulcer with a red-pink wound bed, without slough. It may also manifest as an intact or open/ruptured serum-filled blister.
Choice C rationale:
Stage IV Pressure ulcer - This choice is not correct because a Stage IV pressure ulcer involves full-thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, tendon, or muscle. There is no mention of such extensive tissue loss in the given scenario.
Choice D rationale:
Stage II Pressure ulcer - This choice is a duplicate of Choice B and is not correct for the reasons stated above.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Repositioning the client every 3 hours is a crucial intervention to prevent skin breakdown in older adults who are immobile or have limited mobility. Prolonged pressure on certain areas can lead to ischemia and tissue damage, particularly over bony prominences. Repositioning helps to distribute pressure evenly, maintain circulation, and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.
Choice B rationale:
Massage of bony prominences is not recommended as a preventive measure for skin breakdown. Massaging these areas can actually cause friction and shear forces, leading to further damage to the delicate skin of older adults. Gentle repositioning and maintaining proper skin hygiene are more effective strategies.
Choice C rationale:
While a diet high in protein is important for overall health, it is not a direct intervention for maintaining the integrity of the client's skin. Protein is necessary for wound healing and tissue repair, but it doesn't address the primary concern of preventing skin breakdown due to pressure.
Choice D rationale:
Applying cornstarch to keep the skin dry is not a recommended practice for preventing skin breakdown. Excessive moisture can contribute to skin breakdown, but cornstarch may not be the best solution. Proper hygiene, gentle cleansing, and appropriate use of moisture-barrier products are more effective in maintaining skin integrity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The choice "Patient ate half of his breakfast tray" is not the correct answer. While poor appetite or decreased intake can impact a patient's nutritional status, it is not a direct indicator of pressure ulcer risk.
Choice B rationale:
The choice "Patient has a raised erythematous rash below the knee" is not the correct answer. This might indicate a localized skin issue, such as an allergic reaction or dermatitis, but it is not a clear sign of pressure ulcer risk.
Choice C rationale:
The choice "Patient has a capillary refill of less than 2 seconds" is not the correct answer. Capillary refill time assesses peripheral circulation and is useful in evaluating perfusion, but it is not specifically indicative of pressure ulcer risk.
Choice D rationale:
The correct answer is "Patient is incontinent of stool." Choice D is the correct answer. Incontinence, especially fecal incontinence, increases the risk of pressure ulcer development. Prolonged exposure to moisture from urine or stool weakens the skin's integrity, making it more susceptible to breakdown when pressure is applied over bony prominences.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
