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

Which type of skin tear classification indicates total skin or flap loss?

1. Type 1

2. Type 2

3. Type 3

4. Type 4

The correct answer is: Type 3

The classification of skin tears is important in wound care as it helps in determining the appropriate treatment plan and anticipating healing outcomes. In many classification systems, Type 3 skin tears are characterized by total loss of the epidermal flap or skin, which means that the underlying tissue is exposed without any remaining skin to cover or protect it. This classification indicates a more severe injury where the skin has completely separated from the surrounding area, necessitating careful management to promote healing and prevent infection. Understanding the distinction among the different types of skin tears highlights the severity of the injury. For instance, Type 1 and Type 2 tears involve partial thickness where the skin may still have some attachment, thus indicating that these injuries generally have a better prognosis and can often heal more easily than Type 3 tears. Type 4 typically refers to deep tissue injury, which also indicates a different type of severity and detail in the damage but does not characterize complete flap loss in the same way that Type 3 does. Grasping the implications of different classifications enables healthcare professionals to apply appropriate interventions and anticipate care needs effectively.