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

What characterizes stage 1 pressure ulcers?

1. Intact skin with persistent non-blanchable redness

2. Skin with blisters and open wounds

3. Skin that is completely intact without any signs

4. Bleeding with no discoloration

The correct answer is: Intact skin with persistent non-blanchable redness

The characteristic feature of stage 1 pressure ulcers is intact skin that displays persistent non-blanchable redness. This redness indicates that there has been a change in the underlying tissue due to pressure but the skin itself remains unbroken. The non-blanchable nature of the redness means that when pressure is applied, the redness does not fade, which is a key indicator of pressure injury even when the skin appears intact. This understanding is crucial in the management and prevention of pressure ulcers, as it signifies early tissue damage that can be addressed through interventions like repositioning, pressure relief, and proper skin care before more severe damage occurs. Recognizing stage 1 pressure ulcers allows healthcare providers to initiate preventative measures promptly and potentially halt progression to more serious stages of pressure ulcers. In contrast, the other options describe conditions that do not align with the definition of stage 1 pressure ulcers: blisters and open wounds are indicative of more advanced stages (stage 2 or higher), completely intact skin without any signs suggests no injury, and bleeding without discoloration does not align with the criteria for pressure ulcer staging. Understanding these distinctions is essential for effective assessment and care planning for individuals at risk of skin breakdown.