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

Which of the following is NOT a key assessment parameter for pressure injuries?

1. Patient’s age

2. Wound location

3. Exudate characteristics

4. Dimensions and depth in cm

The correct answer is: Patient’s age

The assessment of pressure injuries involves several key parameters that help in determining the severity and treatment of the wound. Among these, the patient's age is not typically considered a direct assessment parameter. While age can influence healing and may have implications for overall health, it does not provide specific, actionable information about the wound itself. In contrast, the location of the wound is critical because different areas of the body are subject to varying degrees of pressure, which can influence the type and severity of the pressure injury. Additionally, assessing exudate characteristics—such as color, odor, and quantity—can offer insights into the wound's status and the potential for infection. Lastly, documenting the dimensions and depth of the wound in centimeters is essential for tracking the progression of healing, as these measurements indicate how the pressure injury is changing over time. Each of these factors provides important clinical information specific to the management of pressure injuries, while the patient's age serves more as a background context rather than a direct assessment criterion.