Pressure Injury Stages and Care

Pressure injuries, also known as ulcers, are wounds caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, often occurring in areas where bones are close to the skin. The skin consists of three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, each with specific functions. Pressure injuries form when blood flow is restricted, leading to tissue death. They are classified into stages based on severity, from stage one with intact skin to stage four involving muscle or bone. Treatment includes cleaning, debridement, and bandaging to prevent infection and promote healing.

What is another name for a pressure injury?

• Muscle strain

• Bone fracture

• Pressure ulcer

• Skin rash

Which layer of the skin provides strength and elasticity?

• Hypodermis

• Epidermis

• Dermis

• Subcutaneous

What is the role of the hypodermis in the skin?

• Provides elasticity

• Regulates body temperature

• Stores fat and cushions muscles

• Protects from the environment

What happens to the skin tissue when there is insufficient blood flow?

• It begins to die

• It becomes stronger

• It becomes more elastic

• It turns blue

In which stage of pressure injury is the skin intact but red and inflamed?

• Stage 3

• Stage 4

• Stage 2

• Stage 1

What characterizes a stage 2 pressure injury?

• Intact skin

• Exposed bone

• Blister or open sore

• Crater-like appearance

Which stage of pressure injury involves full thickness loss of tissue extending to muscle or bone?

• Stage 4

• Stage 1

• Stage 2

• Stage 3

What is a suspected deep tissue injury characterized by?

• Red and inflamed skin

• Maroon or purple area

• Open sore

• Intact skin

What is the purpose of cleaning a pressure injury with saline solution?

• To make it more visible

• To change its color

• To prevent infection

• To dry out the wound

Why might a doctor cover a pressure injury with a specialized bandage?

• To make it look better

• To keep it from drying out

• To make it more painful

• To hide it from view