Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What aspect of skin care would be most impacted by moisture according to the Braden scale?

1. Increased mobility

2. Risk of skin breakdown

3. Enhanced healing

4. Improved sensation

The correct answer is: Risk of skin breakdown

The correct answer highlights the relationship between moisture and skin health, particularly in the context of the Braden scale, which assesses a person's risk for pressure ulcers. The Braden scale includes moisture as a key factor that affects the integrity of the skin. High moisture levels can lead to maceration, which compromises the skin barrier and increases susceptibility to breakdown. When the skin is persistently moist, such as from incontinence or excessive sweating, it can weaken the outer layer, making it more prone to damage from pressure or shear forces. Thus, properly managing moisture is essential to reduce the risk of skin breakdown, making this option particularly relevant in understanding the implications of skin care in nursing practice. The other choices relate to different aspects of skin and wound care. While increased mobility can help alleviate pressure, it may not directly correlate to moisture levels. Enhanced healing is influenced by various factors, including nutrition and overall health, rather than moisture alone. Improved sensation is important for awareness of potential injuries but does not directly connect to moisture impact. Therefore, moisture's role in increasing the risk of skin breakdown is the most pertinent aspect according to the Braden scale.