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

What is essential to include in wound care for preventing skin tears?

1. Using flexible adhesive tape

2. Ensuring skin is always moist

3. Providing low friction support surfaces

4. Using harsh soaps to clean

The correct answer is: Providing low friction support surfaces

The importance of providing low friction support surfaces in wound care, particularly for preventing skin tears, stems from the need to reduce mechanical stress on the skin. Skin tears often occur in fragile skin, especially in the elderly or those with certain medical conditions. By using materials that create less friction, caregivers can help minimize the risk of skin being damaged during movement—both of the patient and the linens or other surfaces they come into contact with. Low friction surfaces help to allow the skin to slide smoothly, thus reducing the chance that it will shear or tear, while facilitating safer repositioning and mobility for the patient. This proactive approach is a fundamental aspect of care to maintain skin integrity and prevent injuries like skin tears, particularly in environments where patients may be at higher risk. On the other hand, while using flexible adhesive tape, keeping the skin moist, and cleaning with soaps are important for overall skin care, they do not directly address the risk of friction that contributes to skin tears in the same manner as providing low friction surfaces.