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

What happens with recurrent friction skin damage?

1. Immediate healing

2. Superficial skin loss

3. Deep tissue injury

4. Complete recovery without issues

The correct answer is: Superficial skin loss

Recurrent friction skin damage commonly results in superficial skin loss. This occurs because repeated friction can lead to the top layers of the skin becoming irritated and damaged. The skin's outermost layer, the epidermis, is particularly vulnerable to these abrasive forces, which may cause it to blister or wear away, resulting in visible skin loss. Superficial skin loss is characterized by redness, possible swelling, and pain in the affected area, often seen in areas where skin rubs against clothing or other surfaces, such as during movement. Proper identification and management of this condition are essential to prevent further damage, such as infection or deep tissue injury. While options like immediate healing, deep tissue injury, and complete recovery without issues are plausible in different contexts, they do not accurately describe the typical outcome of recurrent friction, which specifically results in superficial damage to the skin. Recognizing the nature of this injury is crucial for effective assessment and care in wound management.