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

What is NOT an effective method for preventing friction skin damage?

1. Low friction surfaces

2. Soft bathing cloths

3. Gentle skin care

4. Using rough cleaning materials

The correct answer is: Using rough cleaning materials

Using rough cleaning materials is not an effective method for preventing friction skin damage because it can aggravate and irritate the skin, increasing the likelihood of abrasion and injury. When rough materials come into contact with the skin, especially in areas where there is already friction, they can further disrupt the skin's protective barrier and contribute to skin breakdown. In contrast, employing low friction surfaces helps reduce the amount of drag on the skin, thus minimizing the chance of friction-related injuries. Soft bathing cloths are gentle and less abrasive, making them a better choice for cleaning sensitive skin without causing additional trauma. Gentle skin care promotes the maintenance of skin integrity and hydration, allowing the skin to resist damage more effectively. Utilizing these methods contributes to a holistic approach to skin protection and care, whereas the use of rough materials undermines these efforts by potentially causing damage.