Upon inspecting a client’s skin, a nurse identifies a stage 3 pressure ulcer on the sacrum. Which statement best describes a stage 3 pressure ulcer?
There is slough on part of the wound area.
There appears to be persistent reddening of the skin.
There is full-thickness skin loss with a crater.
There is a fluid-filled area under the skin.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Slough, which is a layer of yellowish, dead tissue that can develop on the surface of a wound, is not a defining characteristic of a stage 3 pressure ulcer.
Choice B rationale
Persistent reddening of the skin is typically associated with a stage 1 pressure ulcer, not a stage 3. In a stage 1 pressure ulcer, the skin remains intact but may be red and may not blanch (lose color briefly) when you press your finger on it.
Choice C rationale
A stage 3 pressure ulcer involves full-thickness skin loss that appears as a deep crater. The ulcer may extend into the subcutaneous tissue layer, but not through it to the underlying
muscle or bone. This description matches the statement in Choice C, making it the correct answer.
Choice D rationale
A fluid-filled area under the skin could potentially indicate a blister or a stage 2 pressure ulcer, not a stage 3. In a stage 2 pressure ulcer, the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and part of the underlying layer of skin (dermis) are damaged or lost.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Full-thickness tissue loss extending to underlying support structures such as muscle, tendon, or bone is characteristic of a stage 4 pressure ulcer, not a stage 312.
Choice B rationale
A stage 3 pressure ulcer involves full-thickness skin loss and may appear as a deep crater. There may be damage to or necrosis of subcutaneous tissue that may extend down to, but not through, underlying fascia. This description matches the statement in Choice B, making it the correct answer.
Choice C rationale
A shallow, ruptured or intact skin blister without slough is more indicative of a stage 2 pressure ulcer. In a stage 2 pressure ulcer, there is partial-thickness loss of dermis presenting as a shallow open ulcer with a red-pink wound bed.
Choice D rationale
Unbroken skin with un-blancheable erythema is characteristic of a stage 1 pressure ulcer, not a stage 3. In a stage 1 pressure ulcer, the skin is not broken, but it has redness that does not lighten (or blanch) when you press on it.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
It is a good practice to change the batteries in smoke detectors annually to ensure they are working properly. This statement does not indicate a need for further instruction.
Choice B rationale
Using a walker when going upstairs can be dangerous due to the risk of falls. It is recommended that individuals use handrails or assistance when navigating stairs, not a walker. This statement indicates that the client needs further instruction.
Choice C rationale
Leaving a night light on can help prevent falls by providing visibility during the night. This statement does not indicate a need for further instruction.
Choice D rationale
Installing grab bars in the bathroom, especially near the toilet and in the shower, can provide support and prevent falls. This statement does not indicate a need for further instruction.
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