Exam 2: mobility and skin integrity

ANS: B Because removal of dressings is painful, if often helps to give an analgesic at least 30 minutes before exposing a wound and changing the dressing. The next sequence of events includes gathering supplies for the dressing change, donning gloves, and avoiding the accidental removal of the drain during the procedure.

21. The nurse is caring for a patient on the medical-surgical unit with a wound that has a drain and a dressing that needs changing. Which of these actions should the nurse take first? a. Don sterile gloves. b. Provide analgesic medications as ordered. c. Avoid accidentally removing the drain. d. Gather supplies.

ANS: B Because a drainage system needs to be patent, look for drainage flow through the tubing, as well as around the tubing. A sudden decrease in drainage through the tubing may indicate a blocked drain, and you will need to notify the physician. The hea care lth provider determines the need for drain removal and removes drains. Notifying the charge nurse, although important for communication, is not the next step in providing care for this patient. The evacuator may be compressed when a blockage is present.

22. The nurse is caring for a patient who has a wound drain with a collection device. The nurse notices that the collection device has a sudden decrease in drainage. What would be the nurse's next best step? a. Remove the drain; a drain is no longer needed. b. Call the physician; a blockage is present in the tubing. c. Call the charge nurse to look at the drain. d. As long as the evacuator is compressed, do nothing.

ANS: B A low-air-loss therapy unit is utilized for stage IV pressure ulcers and when prevention or treatment of skin breakdown is needed. If the patient has a stage III or stage IV ulcer or a postoperative myocutaneous flap, the low-air-loss therapy unit wouldbe an appropriate selection. A static air mattress or nonpowered redistribution is utilized for the patient at high risk for skin breakdown. A standard mattress is utilized for an individual who does not have actual or potential altered or impair skin integrity. Lateral rotation is used for treatment and prevention of pulmonary complications associated with mobility.

23. The nurse is caring for a patient who has a stage IV pressure ulcer awaiting plastic surgery consultation. Which of the following specialty beds would be most appropriate? a. Standard mattress b. Nonpowered redistribution air mattress c. Low-air-loss therapy unit d. Lateral rotation

ANS: C Clean pressure ulcers with noncytotoxic cleansers such as normal saline, which will not kill fibroblasts and healing tissue. Cytotoxic cleansers such as Dakin's solution, acetic acid, povidone-iodine, and hydrogen peroxide can hinder the healing process and should not be utilized on clean granulating wounds. Consulting a dietitian for the nutritional needs of the patient, utilizing a low-air-loss therapy unit to decrease pressure, and applying hydrogel dressings to provide a moist environment for healing are all orders that would be appropriate.

25. The nurse is caring for a patient with a healing stage III pressure ulcer. The wound is clean and granulating. Which of the following orders would the nurse question? a. Use a low-air-loss therapy unit. b. Consult a dietitian. c. Irrigate with hydrogen peroxide. d. Utilize hydrogel dressing.

ANS: A The nurse continually assesses the skin for signs of ulcer development. Assessment of tissue pressure damage includes visual and tactile inspection of the skin. Observe pressure points such as bony prominences and areas next to treatments such as a binasal cannula and the nares. Assessment of pulses, breath sounds, and bowel sounds is part of a head-to-toe assessment and could influence the function of the body and ultimately skin integrity; however, this assessment is not a specific part of a skin assessment.

26. The nurse is completing an assessment of the skin's integrity, which includes a. Pressure points. b. All pulses. c. Breath sounds. d. Bowel sounds.

ANS: C With use of the Braden scale, the patient receives 3 for slight sensory impairment, 4 for skin being rarely moist, 3 for walks occasionally, 3 for slightly limited mobility, 4 for intake of meals, and 4 for no problem with friction and shear. The total score is

27. The nurse is completing a skin risk assessment utilizing the Braden scale. The patient has some sensory impairment and skin that is rarely moist, walks occasionally, and has slightly limited mobility, along with excellent intake of meals and no apparent problem with friction and shear. What would be the patient's Braden scale total score? a. 15 b. 17 c. 20 d. 23

ANS: B Maintaining adequate pain control and patient comfort increases the patient's willingness and ability to increase mobility, which in turn reduces pressure ulcer risks. It is good to encourage a patient to move about but even better if the patient actually sits up in the chair. Explaining the risk of immobility is important for the patient because it may impact the patient's willingness but not his or her ability. Turning the patient is important for decreasing pressure ulcers but needs to be done every 2 hours, and again does not influence the patient's ability to increase mobility.

28. The nurse is caring for a medical-surgical patient. To decrease the risk of pressure ulcers and encourage the patient's willingness and ability to increase mobility, which intervention is most important for the nurse to complete? a. Encourage the patient to sit up in the chair. b. Provide analgesic medication as ordered. c. Explain the risks of immobility to the patient. d. Turn the patient every 3 hours while in bed.

ANS: C After the assessment is completed and the information that the patient has a stage IV pressure ulcer is gathered, a diagnosis of Impaired skin integrity is selected. Readiness for enhanced nutrition would be selected for an individual with an adequate diet that could be improved. Impaired physical mobility and Chronic pain, as well as the nutrition nursing diagnosis, could well be the nursing diagnoses selected for this patient, but current data in the question strongly support Impaired skin integrity.

29. The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage IV pressure ulcer. The nurse assigns which of the following nursing diagnoses? a. Readiness for enhanced nutrition b. Impaired physical mobility c. Impaired skin integrity d. Chronic pain

ANS: B The presence and duration of moisture on the skin increase the risk of ulcer formation by making it susceptible to injury. Moisture can originate from wound drainage, excessive perspiration, and fecal or urinary incontinence. Bacteria and enzymes in the stool can enhance the opportunity for skin breakdown because the skin is moistened and softened, causing maceration. Eating a balanced diet is important for nutrition, but eating just two thirds of the meal does not indicate that the individual is at risk. A raised red rash on the leg again is a concern and can affect the integrity of the skin, but it is located on the shin, which is not a high-risk area for skin breakdown. Pressure can influence capillary refill, leading to skin breakdown, but this capillary response is within normal limits.

3. Which nursing observation would indicate that the patient was at risk for pressure ulcer formation? a. The patient ate two thirds of breakfast. b. The patient has fecal incontinence. c. The patient has a raised red rash on the right shin. d. The patient's capillary refill is less than 2 seconds.

ANS: A The area on the heel has experienced a decreased supply of blood and oxygen (tissue perfusion), which has resulted in tissue damage. The most appropriate nursing diagnosis with this information is Ineffective tissue perfusion. Risk for infection, Acute pain, and Imbalanced nutrition may be part of this patient's nursing diagnosis, but the data provided do not support this nursing diagnosis.

30. The nurse has collected the following assessment data: right heel with reddened area that does not blanch. What nursing diagnosis would the nurse assign? a. Ineffective tissue perfusion b. Risk for infection c. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements d. Acute pain

ANS: B Assessment and a plan for the patient to optimize the diet are essential. Adequate calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals promote wound healing. The nurse is the coordinator of care, and collaborating with the dietitian would result in planning the best meals for the patient. The respiratory therapist can be consulted when a patient has issues with the respiratory system. Case management can

32. The medical-surgical acute care patient has received a nursing diagnosis of Impaired skin integrity. The nurse consults a a. Respiratory therapist. b. Registered dietitian. c. Chaplain. d. Case manager.

ANS: C Because the patient has an open wound and the skin is no longer intact to protect the tissue, the patient is at increased risk for infection. The nurse will be assessing the patient for signs and symptoms of infection, including an increase in temperature, an increase in white count, and odorous and purulent drainage from the wound. The patient is unconscious and is unable to communicate the signs and symptoms of infection; also, this is an intervention, not a goal for this diagnosis. It is important for the patient's family to be able to demonstrate how to care for the wound and wash their hands, but these statements are interventions, not goals or outcomes for this nursing diagnosis.

33. The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage II pressure ulcer and has assigned a nursing diagnosis of Risk for infection. The patient is unconscious and bedridden. The nurse is completing the plan of care and is writing goals for the patient. What is the best goal for this patient? a. The patient's family will demonstrate specific care of the wound site. b. The patient will state what to look for with regard to an infection. c. The patient will remain free of an increase in temperature and of odorous or purulent drainage from the wound. d. The patient's family members will wash their hands when visiting the patient.

ANS: A Assessment and skin hygiene are two initial defenses for preventing skin breakdown. Avoid soaps and hot water when cleansing the skin. Use gentle cleansers with nonionic surfactants. After bathing, make sure to dry the skin completely, and apply moisturizer to keep the epidermis well lubricated. Absorbent pads and garments are controversial and should be considered only when other alternatives have been exhausted. Positioning the patient reduces pressure and shearing force to the skin and is part of the plan of care but is not one of the initial components. Depending on the needs of the patient, a specialty bed may be needed, but again, this does not provide the initial defense for skin breakdown.

36. The nurse is caring for a patient who has suffered a stroke and has residual mobility problems. The patient is at risk for skin impairment. Which initial interventions should the nurse select to decrease this risk? a. Gentle cleaners and thorough drying of the skin b. Absorbent pads and garments c. Positioning with use of pillows d. Therapeutic beds and mattresses

ANS: C When patients are able to sit up in a chair, make sure to limit the amount of time to 2 hours or less. The chair sitting time should be individualized. In the sitting position, pressure on the ischial tuberosities is greater than in a supine position. Utilize foam, gel, or an air cushion to distribute weight. Longer than 2 hours can increase the chance of ischemia.

37. The nurse is caring for a patient who is at risk for skin impairment. The patient is able to sit up in a chair. The nurse includes this intervention in the plan of care. How long should the nurse schedule the patient to sit in the chair? a. At least 3 hours b. Not longer than 30 minutes c. Less than 2 hours d. As long as the patient remains comfortable

ANS: C When repositioning the patient, obtain assistance and utilize a transfer sliding board under the patient's body to prevent dragging the patient on bed sheets and placing the patient at high risk for shearing and friction injuries. The patient should be placed in a 30-degree lateral position, not supine position. The head of the bed should be elevated less than 30 degrees to prevent pressure ulcer development from shearing forces.

38. The nurse is caring for a patient who is immobile and is at risk for skin impairment. The plan of care includes turning the patient. What is the best method for repositioning the patient? a. Obtain assistance and use the drawsheet to place the patient into the new position. b. Place the patient in a 30-degree supine position. c. Utilize a transfer sliding board and assistance to slide the patient into the new position. d. Elevate the head of the bed 45 degrees.

ANS: A Stage I intact pressure ulcers that resolve slowly without epidermal loss over 7 to 14 days do not require a dressing. This allows visual inspection and monitoring. A transparent dressing could be used to protect the patient from shear but cannot be used in the presence of excessive moisture. A composite film, hydrocolloid, or hydrogel can be utilized on a clean stage II. A hydro colloid, hydrogel covered with foam, calcium alginate, gauze, and growth factors can be utilized with a clean stage III. Hydrogel calcium , alginate, gauze, and growth factors can be utilized with a clean stage IV. An unstageable wound cover with eschar should utilize a dressing of adherent film or gauze with an ordered solution of enzymes. In rare cases when eschar is dry and intact, no dressing is used, but this is an unstaged ulcer.

39. The nurse is staffing a medical-surgical unit that is assigned most of the patients with pressure ulcers. The nurse has become competent in the care of pressure wounds and recognizes that a staged pressure ulcer that does not require a dressing is stage a. I. b. II. c. III. d. IV.

ANS: A, B, C, D A registered dietitian is useful in working with the nurse to determine a meal plan that will support wound healing. An enterostomal or wound care nurse specializes in caring for the needs of the patient with wounds. Physical therapy is concerned about the mobility of the patient and can assist an immobile patient to progress toward mobility and decrease the risk for pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers take a long time to heal and usually require continued therapy in the home. Case management personnel are useful in obtaining care for the patient outside the home. If the patient has a spiritual need, the chaplain can assist. If the patient has a need associated with medications, the pharmacist can assist. However, chaplains and pharmacists usually are not part of the wound care multidisciplinary team, unless a special need arises.

1. The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage II pressure ulcer and as the coordinator of care understands the need for a multidisciplinary approach. The nurse evaluates the need for several consults. Which of the following should always be included in the consults? (Select all that apply.) a. Registered dietitian b. Enterostomal and wound care nurse c. Physical therapist d. Case management personnel e. Chaplain f. Pharmacist

ANS: D A clean surgical incision is an example of a wound with little loss of tissue that heals with primary intention. The skin edges are approximated or closed, and the risk for infection is low. Partial-thickness repairs are done on partial-thickness wounds that are shallow, involving loss of the epidermis and maybe partial loss of the dermis. These wounds heal by regeneration because the epidermis regenerates. Tertiary intention is seen when a wound is left open for several days, and then the wound edges are approximated. Wound closure is delayed until the risk of infection is resolved. A wound involving loss of tissue such as a burn or a pressure ulcer or laceration heals by secondary intention. The wound is left open until it becomes filled with scar tissue. It takes longer for a wound to heal by secondary intention; thus the chance of infection is greater.

10. The nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a laparoscopic appendectomy. The nurse recalls that this type of wound heals by A.Tertiary intention. B.Secondary intention. C.Partial-thickness repair. D. Primary intention.

ANS: B A wound involving loss of tissue such as a burn or a pressure ulcer or laceration heals by secondary intention. The wound is left open until it becomes filled with scar tissue. It takes longer for a wound to heal by secondary intention; thus the chance of infection is greater. A clean surgical incision is an example of a wound with little loss of tissue that heals by primary intention. The skin edges are approximated or closed, and the risk for infection is low. Partial- thickness repair are done on partial-thickness wounds that are shallow, involving loss of the epidermis and maybe partial loss of the dermis. These wounds heal by regeneration because the epidermis regenerates. Tertiary intention is seen when a wound is left open for several days, and then the wound edges are approximated. Wound closure is delayed until the risk of infection is resolved.

11. The nurse is caring for a patient in the burn unit. The nurse recalls that this type of wound heals by a. Tertiary intention. b. Secondary intention. c. Partial-thickness repair. d. Primary intention.

ANS: D A hematoma is a localized collection of blood underneath the tissues. It appears as swelling, change in color, sensation, or warmth or a mass that often takes on a bluish discoloration. A hematoma near a major artery or vein is dangerous because it can put pressure on the vein or artery and obstruct blood flow. Itching of an incision site can be associated with clipping of hair, dressings, or possibly the healing process. Incisions should be approximated with edges together. After surgery, when nerves in the skin and tissues have been traumatized by the surgical procedure, it is expected that the patient would experience pain.

13. The nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a total hysterectomy. Which nursing observation would indicate that the patient was experiencing a complication of wound healing? a. The incision site has started to itch. b. The incision site is approximated. c. The patient has pain at the incision site. d. The incision has a mass, bluish in color.

ANS: A occurs is when a wound fails to heal properly and the layers of skin and tissue separate. It involves abdominal surgical wounds and occurs after a sudden strain such as coughing, vomiting, or sitting up in bed. Patients often report feeling as though something has given way. Evisceration is seen when vital organs protrude through a wound opening. A fistula is an abnormal passage between two organs or between an organ and the outside of the body that can be characterized by chronic drainage of fluid. Infection is characterized by drainage that is odorous and purulent.

14. Which of these findings if seen in a postoperative patient should the nurse associate with dehiscence? a. Complaint by patient that something has given way b. Protrusion of visceral organs through a wound opening c. Chronic drainage of fluid through the incision site d. Drainage that is odorous and purulent

ANS: A Normal wound healing requires proper nutrition. Serum proteins are biochemical indicators of malnutrition, and serum albumin is probably the most frequently measured of these parameters. The best measurement of nutritional status is prealbumin because it reflects not only what the patient has ingested, but also what the body has absorbed, digested, and metabolized. Measurement of creatine kinase helps in the diagnosis of myocardial infarcts and has no known role in wound healing. Potassium is a major electrolyte that helps to regulate metabolic activities, cardiac muscle contraction, skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, and transmission and conduction of nerve impulses. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that prevents the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids. It is believed to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease and cancer. Vitamin E has no known role in wound healing.

15. A patient has developed a decubitus ulcer. What laboratory data would be important to gather? a. Serum albumin b. Creatine kinase c. Vitamin E d. Potassium

ANS: C Oxygen fuels the cellular functions essential to the healing process; the ability to perfuse tissues with adequate amounts of oxygenated blood is critical in wound healing. Blood flow through the pulmonary capillaries provides red blood cells for oxygen attachment. Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the pulmonary blood; most of the oxygen attaches to hemoglobin molecules within the red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygenated hemoglobin molecules through the left side of the heart and out to the peripheral capillaries, where the oxygen detaches, depending on the needs of the tissues. Pulse oximetry measures the oxygen saturation of blood. Assessment of muscular strength and sensation, although useful for fitness and mobility testing, does not provide any data with regard to wound healing. Sleep, although important for rest and for integration of learning and restoration of cognitive function, does not provide any data with regard to wound healing.

16. Which of the following would be the most important piece of assessment data to gather with regard to wound healing? a. Muscular strength assessment b. Sleep assessment c. Pulse oximetry assessment d. Sensation assessment

ANS: A The patient is showing signs and symptoms associated with infection in the wound. It is serious and needs treatment but is not a life-threatening emergency, where care is needed immediately or the patient will suffer long-term consequences. The nurse should complete the assessment; gather all data such as current treatment modalities, medications, vital signs including temperature, and laboratory results such as the most recent complete blood count or white cell count. The nurse can then notify the physician and receive treatment orders for the patient. It is important to notify the charge nurse and consult the wound nurse on the patient's status and on any new orders.

17. The nurse is caring for a patient with a healing stage III pressure ulcer. Upon entering the room, the nurse notices an odor and observes a purulent discharge, along with increased redness at the wound site. What is the next best step for the nurse? a. Complete the head-to-toe assessment, and include current treatment, vital signs, and laboratory results. b. Notify the charge nurse about the change in status and the potential for infection. c. Notify the physician by utilizing Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR). d. Notify the wound care nurse about the change in status and the potential for infection.

ANS: C Protein needs are especially increased in supporting the activity of wound healing. The physiological processes of wound healing depend on the availability of protein, vitamins (especially A and C), and the trace minerals of zinc and copper. A balanced diet of fat and carbohydrates, along with protein, vitamins, and minerals, is needed in any diet. Wound healing does not require increased amounts of fats or carbohydrates. Vitamin E has no known role in wound healing.

18. The nurse is collaborating with the dietitian about a patient with a stage III pressure ulcer. After the collaboration, the nurse orders a meal plan that includes increased a. Fat. b. Carbohydrates. c. Protein. d. Vitamin E.

ANS: C The patient's psychological response to any wound is part of the nurse's assessment. Body image changes can influence self-concept. Factors that affect the patient's perception of the wound include the presence of scars, drains, odor from drainage, and temporary or permanent prosthetic devices. The wound is odorous, and a drain is in place. The patient who is asking for a bath and change in linens gives you a clue that he or she may be concerned about the smell in the room. The patient stating that he or she wants to feel better, talking about going home, and caring about what is for dinner could be interpreted as positive statements that indicate progress along the health journey.

19. The nurse is completing an assessment on an individual who has a stage IV pressure ulcer. The wound is odorous, and a drain is currently in place. The nurse determines that the patient is experiencing issues with self-concept when the patient states which of the following? a. "I think I will be ready to go home early next week." b. "I am so weak and tired, I want to feel better." c. "I am ready for my bath and linen change as soon as possible." d. "I am hoping there will be something good for dinner tonight."

ANS: A Pressure is the main element that causes pressure ulcers. Three pressure-related factors contribute to pressure ulcer development: pressure intensity, pressure duration, and tissue tolerance. When the intensity of the pressure exerted on the capillary exceeds 12 to 32 mm Hg, this occludes the vessel, causing ischemic injury to the tissues it normally feeds. High pressure over a short time and low pressure over a long time cause skin breakdown. Resistance (the ability to remain unaltered by the damaging effect of something), stress (worry or anxiety), and weight (individuals of all sizes, shapes, and ages acquire skin breakdown) are not major causes of pressure ulcers.

2. The nurse is caring for a patient who was involved in an automobile accident 2 weeks ago. The patient sustained a head injury and is unconscious. The nurse is able to identify that the major element involved in the development of a decubitus ulcer is a. Pressure. b. Resistance. c. Stress. d. Weight.

ANS: A, C, D, F Normal wound healing requires proper nutrition. Oxygen and the ability to provide adequate amounts of oxygenated blood are critical for wound healing. Wound infection prolongs the inflammatory phase, delays collagen synthesis, prevents epithelialization, and decreases the production of proinflammatory cytokines, which leads to additional tissue destruction. As patients age, all aspects of wound healing are delayed. Hemorrhage and evisceration are complications of wound healing.

2. The nurse is caring for a patient with wound healing by tertiary intention. Which factors does the nurse recognize as influencing wound healing? (Select all that apply.) a. Nutrition b. Evisceration c. Tissue perfusion d. Infection e. Hemorrhage f. Age

ANS: A After determining that a patient's condition is stable, inspect the wound for bleeding. An abrasion will have limited bleeding, a laceration can bleed more profusely, and a puncture wound bleeds in relation to the size and depth of the wound. Address any bleeding issues. Inspect the wound for foreign bodies; traumatic wounds are dirty and may need to be addressed. Determine the size of the wound. A large open wound may expose bone or tissue and be protected, or the wound may need suturing. When the wound is caused by a dirty penetrating object, determine the need for a tetanus vaccination.

A patient presents to the emergency department with a laceration of the right forearm caused by a fall. After determining that the patient is stable, the next best step is to a. Inspect the wound for bleeding. b. Inspect the wound for foreign bodies. c. Determine the size of the wound. d. Determine the need for a tetanus antitoxin injection.

4. The nurse is caring for a patient with potential skin breakdown. Which components would the nurse include in the skin assessment? (Select all that apply.) a. Mobility b. Hyperemia c. Induration d. Blanching e. Temperature of skin f. Nutritional status

4. The nurse is caring for a patient with potential skin breakdown. Which components would the nurse include in the skin assessment? (Select all that apply.) a. Mobility b. Hyperemia c. Induration d. Blanching e. Temperature of skin f. Nutritional status

ANS: B Explaining the procedure educates the patient regarding the dressing change and involves him in his care, thereby allowing the patient some control in decreasing anxiety. Telling the patient to close his eyes and turning on the television are distractions that do not usually decrease a patient's anxiety. If the family is a support system, asking support systems to leave the room ca actually n increase a patient's anxiety.

40. The nurse is caring for a patient with a wound. The patient appears anxious as the nurse is preparing to change the dressing. What should the nurse do to decrease the patient's anxiety? a. Tell the patient to close his eyes. b. Explain the procedure. c. Turn on the television. d. Ask the family to leave the room.

ANS: C Cleanse surgical or traumatic wounds by applying noncytotoxic solution with sterile gauze or irrigations. Cleanse in a direction from the least contaminated area. Use gentle friction when applying solutions to the skin, and allow irrigation to flow from the least to the most contaminated area.

41. The nurse is cleansing a wound site. As the nurse administers the procedure, what intervention should be included? a. Allowing the solution to flow from the most contaminated to the least contaminated b. Scrubbing vigorously when applying solutions to the skin c. Cleansing in a direction from the least contaminated area d. Utilizing clean gauge and clean gloves to cleanse a site

ANS: D The Braden scale is composed of six subscales: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction and shear. The total score ranges from 6 to 23, and a lower total score indicates a higher risk for pressure ulcer development. The cutoff score for onset of pressure ulcer risk with the Braden scale in the general adult population is 18. The best sign is a perfect score of 23.

44. The patient has been provided a nursing diagnosis of Risk for skin impairment and has a 15 on the Braden scale upon admission. The nurse has implemented interventions for this nursing diagnosis. Upon reassessment, which Braden score would be the best sign that the risk for skin breakdown is decreasing? a. 12 b. 13 c. 20 d. 23

ANS: B This would be a stage II pressure ulcer because it presents as partial-thickness skin loss involving epidermis, dermis, or both. The ulcer is superficial and presents clinically as an abrasion, blister, or shallow crater. Stage I is intact skin with nonblanchable redness over a bony prominence. With a Stage III pressure ulcer, subcutaneous fat may be visible, but bone, tendon, and muscles are not exposed. Stage IV involves full-thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, tendon, or muscle.

5. The nurse is admitting an older patient from a nursing home. During the assessment, the nurse notes a shallow open ulcer without slough on the right heel of the patient. This pressure ulcer would be staged as stage a. I. b. II. c. III. d. IV.

ANS: A, B, C, D Before applying a bandage or a binder, the nurse has several responsibilities. The nurse would need to inspect the skin for abrasions, edema, and discoloration or exposed wound edges. The nurse also is responsible for covering exposed wounds or open abrasions with a sterile dressing and assessing the condition of underlying dressings and changing if soiled, as well as assessing the skin of underlying areas that will be distal to the bandage. This checks for signs of circulatory impairment, so that a comparison can be made after bandages are applied. Marking the sites of all abrasions is not necessary. Although it is important for the skin to be clean, and even though it may need to be cleaned with a noncytotoxic cleanser, cleansing with hydrogen peroxide can interfere with wound healing.

5. The nurse is caring for a patient who will have both a large abdominal bandage and an abdominal binder. The nurse's responsibilities and activities before applying the bandage and binder include which of the following? (Select all that apply.) a. Inspecting the skin for abrasions and edema b. Covering exposed wounds c. Assessing condition of current dressings d. Assessing the skin at underlying areas for circulatory impairment e. Marking the sites of all abrasions f. Cleansing the area with hydrogen peroxide

ANS: D When assessing a patient with darkly pigmented skin, proper lighting is essential to accurately complete the first step in assessment—inspection—and the whole assessment process. Natural light or a halogen light is recommended. Fluorescent light sources can produce blue tones on darkly pigmented skin and can interfere with an accurate assessment. Other items that could possibly be used during the assessment include gloves for infection control, a disposable measuring device to measure the size of the wound, and a cotton-tipped applicator to measure the depth of the wound, but these items not the first item used.

6. The nurse is completing a skin assessment on a patient with darkly pigmented skin. Which of the following would be used first to assist in staging an ulcer on this patient? a. Cotton-tipped applicator b. Disposable measuring tape c. Sterile gloves d. Halogen light

ANS: B, D, E, F Optimal outcomes are to prevent injury to skin and tissues, reduce injury to skin, reduce injury to underlying tissues, and restore skin integrity. Asking the patient's perceptions and whether expectations are being met allows one to obtain information regarding the experience, but these are not actual measurable outcomes.

6. The nurse is updating the plan of care for a patient with a stage III pressure ulcer and a nursing diagnosis of Impaired skin integrity. Which of the following outcomes when met indicate progression toward goals? (Select all that apply.) a. Ask whether patient's expectations are being met. b. Prevent injury to the skin and tissues. c. Obtain the patient's perception of interventions. d. Reduce injury to the skin. e. Reduce injury to the underlying tissues. f. Restore skin integrity.

ANS: C Pressure ulcers are full-thickness wounds that extend into the dermis and heal by scar formation because the deeper structures do not regenerate, hence the need for full-thickness repair. The full-thickness repair has three phases: inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling. A wound heals by primary intention when wounds such as surgical wounds have little tissue loss; the skin edges are approximated or closed, and the risk for infection is low. Partial-thickness repairs are done on partial-thickness wounds that are shallow, involving loss of the epidermis and maybe partial loss of the dermis. These wounds heal by regeneration because the epidermis regenerates. Tertiary intention is seen when a wound is left open for several days, and then the wound edges approximated. Wound closure is delayed until risk of infection is resolved. DIF: Remember REF: 1181-1183 OBJ: Discuss the normal process of wound healing.

7. The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage IV pressure ulcer. The nurse recalls that a pressure ulcer takes time to heal and is an example of a. Primary intention. b. Partial-thickness wound repair. c. Full-thickness wound repair. d. Tertiary intention.

ANS: A A partial-thickness wound repair has three compartments: the inflammatory response, epithelial proliferation and migration, and re-establishment of the epidermal layers. Epithelial proliferation and migration start at all edges of the wound, allowing for quick resurfacing. Epithelial cells begin to migrate across the wound bed soon after the wound occurs. A wound left open to air resurfaces within 6 to 7 days, whereas a wound that is kept moist can resurface in 4 days. One or 2 days is too soon for this process to occur, moist or dry.

8. The nurse is caring for a patient with a large abrasion from a motorcycle accident. The nurse recalls that if the wound is kept moist, it can resurface in _____ day(s). a. 4 b. 2 c. 1 d. 7

ANS: C Granulation tissue is red, moist tissue composed of new blood vessels, the presence of which indicates progression toward healing. Soft yellow or white tissue is characteristic of slough—a substance that needs to be removed for the wound to heal. Black or brown necrotic tissue is called eschar, which also needs to be removed for a wound to heal. Purulent drainage is indicative of an infection and will need to be resolved for the wound to heal.

9. The nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing a full-thickness repair. The nurse would expect to see which of the following in this type of repair? a. Eschar b. Slough c. Granulation d. Purulent drainage

37. The nurse is caring for a patient who is at risk for skin impairment. The patient is able to sit up in a chair. The nurse includes this intervention in the plan of care. How long should the nurse schedule the patient to sit in the chair? a. At least 3 hours b. Less than 2 hours c. No longer than 30 minutes d. As long as the patient remains comfortable

=ANS: B When patients are able to sit up in a chair, make sure to limit the amount of time to 2 hours or less. The chair sitting time should be individualized. In the sitting position, pressure on the ischial tuberosities is greater than in a supine position. Utilize foam, gel, or an air cushion to distribute weight. Sitting for longer than 2 hours can increase the chance of ischemia. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1204 OBJ: Develop a nursing care plan for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Planning MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

A patient has developed a decubitus ulcer. What laboratory data would be important to gather? a. Serum albumin b. Creatine kinase c. Vitamin E d. Potassium

A

A patient presents to the emergency department with a laceration of the right forearm caused by a fall. After determining that the patient is stable, the next best step is to a. Inspect the wound for bleeding. b. Inspect the wound for foreign bodies. c. Determine the size of the wound. d. Determine the need for a tetanus antitoxin injection.

A

The nurse has collected the following assessment data: right heel with reddened area that does not blanch. What nursing diagnosis would the nurse assign? a. Ineffective tissue perfusion b. Risk for infection c. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements d. Acute pain

A

The nurse is caring for a patient who has suffered a stroke and has residual mobility problems. The patient is at risk for skin impairment. Which initial interventions should the nurse select to decrease this risk? a. Gentle cleaners and thorough drying of the skin b. Absorbent pads and garments c. Positioning with use of pillows d. Therapeutic beds and mattresses

A

The nurse is caring for a patient who was involved in an automobile accident 2 weeks ago. The patient sustained a head injury and is unconscious. The nurse is able to identify that the major element involved in the development of a decubitus ulcer is a. Pressure. b. Resistance. c. Stress. d. Weight.

A

The nurse is caring for a patient with a healing stage III pressure ulcer. Upon entering the room, the nurse notices an odor and observes a purulent discharge, along with increased redness at the wound site. What is the next best step for the nurse? a. Complete the head-to-toe assessment, and include current treatment, vital signs, and laboratory results. b. Notify the charge nurse about the change in status and the potential for infection. c. Notify the physician by utilizing Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR). d. Notify the wound care nurse about the change in status and the potential for infection.

A

The nurse is completing an assessment of the skin's integrity, which includes a. Pressure points. b. All pulses. c. Breath sounds. d. Bowel sounds.

A

The nurse is staffing a medical-surgical unit that is assigned most of the patients with pressure ulcers. The nurse has become competent in the care of pressure wounds and recognizes that a staged pressure ulcer that does not require a dressing is stage a. I b. II c. III d. IV

A

Which of these findings if seen in a postoperative patient should the nurse associate with dehiscence? a. Complaint by patient that something has given way b. Protrusion of visceral organs through a wound opening c. Chronic drainage of fluid through the incision site d. Drainage that is odorous and purulent

A

22. The nurse is caring for a patient who has a wound drain with a collection device. The nurse notices that the collection device has a sudden decrease in drainage. Which action will the nurse take next? a. Call the health care provider; a blockage is present in the tubing. b. Chart the results on the intake and output flow sheet. c. Do nothing, as long as the evacuator is compressed. d. Remove the drain; a drain is no longer needed.

ANS: A Because a drainage system needs to be patent, look for drainage flow through the tubing, as well as around the tubing. A sudden decrease in drainage through the tubing may indicate a blocked drain, and you will need to notify the health care provider. The health care provider, not the nurse, determines the need for drain removal and removes drains. Charting the results on the intake and output flow sheet does not take care of the problem. The evacuator may be compressed even when a blockage is present. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1199 OBJ: Describe the differences between nursing care of acute and chronic wounds. TOP: Implementation MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

21. The nurse is caring for a patient on the medical-surgical unit with a wound that has a drain and a dressing that needs changing. Which action should the nurse take first? a. Provide analgesic medications as ordered. b. Avoid accidentally removing the drain. c. Don sterile gloves. d. Gather supplies.

ANS: A Because removal of dressings is painful, if often helps to give an analgesic at least 30 minutes before exposing a wound and changing the dressing. The next sequence of events includes gathering supplies for the dressing change, donning gloves, and avoiding the accidental removal of the drain during the procedure. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1198 OBJ: Describe the differences between nursing care of acute and chronic wounds. TOP: Implementation MSC: Physiological Adaptation

1. The nurse is working on a medical-surgical unit that has been participating in a research project associated with pressure ulcers. Which risk factor will the nurse assess for that predisposes a patient to pressure ulcer development? a. Decreased level of consciousness b. Adequate dietary intake c. Shortness of breath d. Muscular pain

ANS: A Patients who are confused or disoriented or who have changing levels of consciousness are unable to protect themselves. The patient may feel the pressure but may not understand what to do to relieve the discomfort or to communicate that he or she is feeling discomfort. Impaired sensory perception, impaired mobility, shear, friction, and moisture are other predisposing factors. Shortness of breath, muscular pain, and an adequate dietary intake are not included among the predisposing factors. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1186 OBJ: Discuss the risk factors that contribute to pressure ulcer formation. TOP: Assessment MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

39. A nurse is assigned most of the patients with pressure ulcers. The nurse leaves the pressure ulcer open to air and does not apply a dressing. To which patient did the nurse provide care? a. A patient with a clean Stage I b. A patient with a clean Stage II c. A patient with a clean Stage III d. A patient with a clean Stage IV

ANS: A Stage I intact pressure ulcers that resolve slowly without epidermal loss over 7 to 14 days do not require a dressing. A composite film, hydrocolloid, or hydrogel can be utilized on a clean Stage II. A hydrocolloid, hydrogel covered with foam, calcium alginate, and gauze can be utilized with a clean Stage III. Hydrogel covered with foam, calcium alginate, and gauze can be utilized with a clean Stage IV. An unstageable wound covered with eschar should utilize a dressing of adherent film or gauze with an ordered solution of enzymes. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1211 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Physiological Adaptation

The nurse is caring for a patient who is at risk for skin impairment. The patient is able to sit up in a chair. The nurse includes this intervention in the plan of care. How long should the nurse schedule the patient to sit in the chair? a. At least 3 hours b. Not longer than 30 minutes c. Less than 2 hours d. As long as the patient remains comfortable

C

The nurse is caring for a patient who is immobile and is at risk for skin impairment. The plan of care includes turning the patient. What is the best method for repositioning the patient? a. Obtain assistance and use the drawsheet to place the patient into the new position. b. Place the patient in a 30-degree supine position. c. Utilize a transfer sliding board and assistance to slide the patient into the new position. d. Elevate the head of the bed 45 degrees.

C

The nurse is caring for a patient with a healing stage III pressure ulcer. The wound is clean and granulating. Which of the following orders would the nurse question? a. Use a low-air-loss therapy unit. b. Consult a dietitian. c. Irrigate with hydrogen peroxide. d. Utilize hydrogel dressing.

C

The nurse is caring for a patient with a pressure ulcer on the left hip. The ulcer is black. The nurse recognizes that the next step in caring for this patient includes a. Monitoring of the wound. b. Irrigation of the wound. c. Débridement of the wound. d. Management of drainage.

C

The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage II pressure ulcer and has assigned a nursing diagnosis of Risk for infection. The patient is unconscious and bedridden. The nurse is completing the plan of care and is writing goals for the patient. What is the best goal for this patient? a. The patient's family will demonstrate specific care of the wound site. b. The patient will state what to look for with regard to an infection. c. The patient will remain free of an increase in temperature and of odorous or purulent drainage from the wound. d. The patient's family members will wash their hands when visiting the patient.

C

The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage III pressure ulcer. The nurse has assigned a nursing diagnosis of Risk for infection. Which intervention would be most important for this patient? a. Teach the family how to manage the odor associated with the wound. b. Discuss with the family how to prepare for care of the patient in the home. c. Encourage thorough handwashing of all individuals caring for the patient. d. Encourage increased quantities of carbohydrates and fats.

C

The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage IV pressure ulcer. The nurse assigns which of the following nursing diagnoses? a. Readiness for enhanced nutrition b. Impaired physical mobility c. Impaired skin integrity d. Chronic pain

C

The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage IV pressure ulcer. The nurse recalls that a pressure ulcer takes time to heal and is an example of a. Primary intention. b. Partial-thickness wound repair. c. Full-thickness wound repair. d. Tertiary intention.

C

The nurse is caring for a postpartum patient. The patient has an episiotomy after experiencing birth. The physician has ordered heat to treat this condition, and the nurse is providing this treatment. This patient is at risk for a. Infection. b. Impaired skin integrity. c. Trauma. d. Imbalanced nutrition.

C

The nurse is cleansing a wound site. As the nurse administers the procedure, what intervention should be included? a. Allowing the solution to flow from the most contaminated to the least contaminated b. Scrubbing vigorously when applying solutions to the skin c. Cleansing in a direction from the least contaminated area d. Utilizing clean gauge and clean gloves to cleanse a site

C

The nurse is completing an assessment on an individual who has a stage IV pressure ulcer. The wound is odorous, and a drain is currently in place. The nurse determines that the patient is experiencing issues with self-concept when the patient states which of the following? a. "I think I will be ready to go home early next week." b. "I am so weak and tired, I want to feel better." c. "I am ready for my bath and linen change as soon as possible." d. "I am hoping there will be something good for dinner tonight."

C

The wound care nurse visits a patient in the long-term care unit. The nurse is monitoring a patient with a stage III pressure ulcer. The wound seems to be healing, and healthy tissue is observed. How would the nurse stage this ulcer? a. Stage I pressure ulcer b. Healing stage II pressure ulcer c. Healing stage III pressure ulcer d. Stage III pressure ulcer

C

Which of the following would be the most important piece of assessment data to gather with regard to wound healing? a. Muscular strength assessment b. Sleep assessment c. Pulse oximetry assessment d. Sensation assessment

C

The home health nurse is caring for a patient with impaired skin integrity in the home. The nurse is reviewing dressing changes with the caregiver. Which intervention assists in managing the expenses associated with long-term wound care? a. Sterile technique b. Clean dressings and no touch technique c. Double bagging of contaminated dressings d. Ability of the caregiver

B

The medical-surgical acute care patient has received a nursing diagnosis of Impaired skin integrity. The nurse consults a a. Respiratory therapist. b. Registered dietitian. c. Chaplain. d. Case manager.

B

The nurse is admitting an older patient from a nursing home. During the assessment, the nurse notes a shallow open ulcer without slough on the right heel of the patient. This pressure ulcer would be staged as stage a. I b. II c. III d. IV

B

The nurse is caring for a medical-surgical patient. To decrease the risk of pressure ulcers and encourage the patient's willingness and ability to increase mobility, which intervention is most important for the nurse to complete? a. Encourage the patient to sit up in the chair. b. Provide analgesic medication as ordered. c. Explain the risks of immobility to the patient. d. Turn the patient every 3 hours while in bed.

B

The nurse is caring for a patient after an open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The nurse requests an abdominal binder and carefully applies the binder. What is the best explanation for the nurse to use when teaching the patient the reason for the binder? a. The binder creates pressure over the abdomen. b. The binder supports the abdomen. c. The binder reduces edema at the surgical site. d. The binder secures the dressing in place.

B

The nurse is caring for a patient in the burn unit. The nurse recalls that this type of wound heals by a. Tertiary intention. b. Secondary intention. c. Partial-thickness repair. d. Primary intention.

B

The nurse is caring for a patient who has a wound drain with a collection device. The nurse notices that the collection device has a sudden decrease in drainage. What would be the nurse's next best step? a. Remove the drain; a drain is no longer needed. b. Call the physician; a blockage is present in the tubing. c. Call the charge nurse to look at the drain. d. As long as the evacuator is compressed, do nothing.

B

The nurse is caring for a patient with a wound. The patient appears anxious as the nurse is preparing to change the dressing. What should the nurse do to decrease the patient's anxiety? a. Tell the patient to close his eyes. b. Explain the procedure. c. Turn on the television. d. Ask the family to leave the room.

B

Which nursing observation would indicate that the patient was at risk for pressure ulcer formation? a. The patient ate two thirds of breakfast. b. The patient has fecal incontinence. c. The patient has a raised red rash on the right shin. d. The patient's capillary refill is less than 2 seconds.

B

17. The nurse is caring for a patient with a healing Stage III pressure ulcer. Upon entering the room, the nurse notices an odor and observes a purulent discharge, along with increased redness at the wound site. What is the next best step for the nurse? a. Complete the head-to-toe assessment, including current treatment, vital signs, and laboratory results. b. Notify the health care provider by utilizing Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR). c. Consult the wound care nurse about the change in status and the potential for infection. d. Check with the charge nurse about the change in status and the potential for infection.

ANS: A The patient is showing signs and symptoms associated with infection in the wound. The nurse should complete the assessment: gather all data such as current treatment modalities, medications, vital signs including temperature, and laboratory results such as the most recent complete blood count or white cell count. The nurse can then notify the primary care provider and receive treatment orders for the patient. It is important to notify the charge nurse and consult the wound nurse on the patient's status and on any new orders. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1191 | 1230 OBJ: Explain the factors that impede or promote wound healing. TOP: Implementation MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

3. Which nursing observation will indicate the patient is at risk for pressure ulcer formation? a. The patient has fecal incontinence. b. The patient ate two thirds of breakfast. c. The patient has a raised red rash on the right shin. d. The patient's capillary refill is less than 2 seconds.

ANS: A The presence and duration of moisture on the skin increase the risk of ulcer formation by making it susceptible to injury. Moisture can originate from wound drainage, excessive perspiration, and fecal or urinary incontinence. Bacteria and enzymes in the stool can enhance the opportunity for skin breakdown because the skin is moistened and softened, causing maceration. Eating a balanced diet is important for nutrition, but eating just two thirds of the meal does not indicate that the individual is at risk. A raised red rash on the leg again is a concern and can affect the integrity of the skin, but it is located on the shin, which is not a high-risk area for skin breakdown. Pressure can influence capillary refill, leading to skin breakdown, but this capillary response is within normal limits. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1187 OBJ: Discuss the risk factors that contribute to pressure ulcer formation. TOP: Assessment MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

ANS: C When a pressure ulcer has been staged and is beginning to heal, the ulcer keeps the same stage and is labeled with the words "healing stage." Once an ulcer has been staged, the stage endures even as the ulcer heals. This ulcer was labeled a stage III, it cannot return to a previous stage such as stage I or II. This ulcer is healing, so it is no longer labeled a stage III.

The wound care nurse visits a patient in the long-term care unit. The nurse is monitoring a patient with a stage III pressure ulcer. The wound seems to be healing, and healthy tissue is observed. How would the nurse stage this ulcer? a. Stage I pressure ulcer b. Healing stage II pressure ulcer c. Healing stage III pressure ulcer d. Stage III pressure ulcer

ANS: D A wound healing by secondary intention takes longer than one healing by primary intention. The wound is left open until it becomes filled with scar tissue. If the scarring is severe, permanent loss of function often occurs. Wounds that heal by primary intention heal quickly with minimal scarring. Scar tissue contains few pigmented cells and has a lighter color than normal skin.

Which nursing observation would indicate that a wound healed by secondary intention? a. Minimal scar tissue b. Minimal loss of tissue function c. Permanent dark redness at site d. Scarring can be severe.

The nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a total hysterectomy. Which nursing observation would indicate that the patient was experiencing a complication of wound healing? a. The incision site has started to itch. b. The incision site is approximated. c. The patient has pain at the incision site. d. The incision has a mass, bluish in color.

D

The nurse is completing a skin assessment on a patient with darkly pigmented skin. Which of the following would be used first to assist in staging an ulcer on this patient? a. Cotton-tipped applicator b. Disposable measuring tape c. Sterile gloves d. Halogen light

D

ANS: C Débridement is the removal of nonviable necrotic tissue. Removal of necrotic tissue is necessary to rid the ulcer of a source of infection, to enable visualization of the wound bed, and to provide a clean base for healing. A wound will not move through the phases of healing if the wound is infected. Irrigating the wound with noncytotoxic cleaners will not damage or kill fibroblasts and healing tissue and will help to keep the wound clean once débrided. When treating a pressure ulcer, it is important to monitor and reassess the wound at least every 8 hours. Management of drainage will help keep the wound clean.

24. The nurse is caring for a patient with a pressure ulcer on the left hip. The ulcer is black. The nurse recognizes that the next step in caring for this patient includes a. Monitoring of the wound. b. Irrigation of the wound. c. Débridement of the wound. d. Management of drainage.

ANS: A, B, C, D Changing positions is important for decreasing the pressure associated with long periods of time in the same position. If the patient is able to feel heat or cold and is mobile, he can protect himself by withdrawing from the source. Knowing toileting habits and any potential for incontinence is important because urine and feces in contact with the skin for long periods can increase skin breakdown. Knowing whether the patient has problems with mobility such as pain will alert the nurse to any potential for decreased movement and increased risk for skin breakdown. Medications and falling are safety risk questions.

3. The nurse is completing a skin assessment on a medical-surgical patient. Which nursing assessment questions should be included in a skin integrity assessment? (Select all that apply.) a. "Can you easily change your position?" b. "Do you have sensitivity to heat or cold?" c. "How often do you need to use the toilet?" d. "Is movement painful?" e. "What medications do you take?" f. "Have you ever fallen?"

C The number one way to decrease the risk of infection by breaking the chain of infection is to wash hands. Encouraging fluid and food intake helps with overall wellness and wound healing, especially protein, but an increase in carbohydrates and fats does not relate to the risk of infection. If the patient will be discharged before the wound is healed, the family will certainly need education on how to care for the patient. Teaching the family how to manage the odor associated with a wound is certainly important, but these interventions do not directly relate to the risk of infection and breaking the chain of the infectious process.

31. The nurse is caring for a patient with a stage III pressure ulcer. The nurse has assigned a nursing diagnosis of Risk for infection. Which intervention would be most important for this patient? a. Teach the family how to manage the odor associated with the wound. b. Discuss with the family how to prepare for care of the patient in the home. c. Encourage thorough handwashing of all individuals caring for the patient. d. Encourage increased quantities of carbohydrates and fats.

Heat causes vasodilatation and is used to improve blood flow to an injured body part. The application of heat incorrectly when the treatment is too hot, or is applied too long or to the wrong place, can result in a burn for the patient and risk for additional trauma. The skin already has impaired integrity owing to the surgical procedure, and because of this has been at risk for infection since the surgical procedure was performed. This patient is of childbearing age and has had a child. Additional needs for nutrition are present during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but this is an established nursing diagnosis. Data are insufficient to support the nursing diagnosis of Imbalanced nutrition.

34. The nurse is caring for a postpartum patient. The patient has an episiotomy after experiencing birth. The physician has ordered heat to treat this condition, and the nurse is providing this treatment. This patient is at risk for a. Infection. b. Impaired skin integrity. c. Trauma. d. Imbalanced nutrition.

ANS: B Clean dressings as opposed to sterile dressings are recommended for home use. This recommendation is in keeping with principles regarding nosocomial infection, and it takes into account the expense of sterile dressings and the dexterity required for application. The caregiver can use the same no touch technique for dressing changes that is used for changing surface dressings without touching the wound or the surface that might come in contact with the wound. Double bagging is required for the disposal of contaminated dressings. The dressings go in a bag, which is fastened and then placed in the household trash. The ability of the caregiver certainly is a component of the success of home treatment, but it does not influence the cost of supplies.

35. The home health nurse is caring for a patient with impaired skin integrity in the home. The nurse is reviewing dressing changes with the caregiver. Which intervention assists in managing the expenses associated with long-term wound care? a. Sterile technique b. Clean dressings and no touch technique c. Double bagging of contaminated dressings d. Ability of the caregiver

The nurse is caring for a patient with a large abrasion from a motorcycle accident. The nurse recalls that if the wound is kept moist, it can resurface in _____ day(s). a. 4 b. 2 c. 1 d. 7

A

36. The nurse is caring for a patient who has suffered a stroke and has residual mobility problems. The patient is at risk for skin impairment. Which initial actions should the nurse take to decrease this risk? a. Use gentle cleansers, and thoroughly dry the skin. b. Use therapeutic bed and mattress. c. Use absorbent pads and garments. d. Use products that hold moisture to the skin.

ANS: A Use cleansers with nonionic surfactants that are gentle to the skin. After you clean the skin, make sure that it is completely dry. Absorbent pads and garments are controversial and should be considered only when other alternatives have been exhausted. Depending on the needs of the patient, a specialty bed may be needed, but again, this does not provide the initial defense for skin breakdown. Use only products that wick moisture away from the patient's skin. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1203-1204 OBJ: Develop a nursing care plan for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

2. The nurse is caring for a patient with a wound healing by full-thickness repair. Which phases will the nurse monitor for in this patient? (Select all that apply.) a. Hemostasis b. Maturation c. Inflammatory d. Proliferative e. Reproduction f. Reestablishment of epidermal layers

ANS: A, B, C, D The four phases involved in the healing process of a full-thickness wound are hemostasis, inflammatory, proliferative, and maturation. Three components are involved in the healing process of a partial-thickness wound: inflammatory response, epithelial proliferation (reproduction) and migration, and reestablishment of the epidermal layers. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1191 OBJ: Explain the factors that impede or promote wound healing. TOP: Assessment MSC: Physiological Adaptation

3. The nurse is completing a skin assessment on a medical-surgical patient. Which nursing assessment questions should be included in a skin integrity assessment? (Select all that apply.) a. "Can you easily change your position?" b. "Do you have sensitivity to heat or cold?" c. "How often do you need to use the toilet?" d. "What medications do you take?" e. "Is movement painful?" f. "Have you ever fallen?"

ANS: A, B, C, E Changing positions is important for decreasing the pressure associated with long periods of time in the same position. If the patient is able to feel heat or cold and is mobile, she can protect herself by withdrawing from the source. Knowing toileting habits and any potential for incontinence is important because urine and feces in contact with the skin for long periods can increase skin breakdown. Knowing whether the patient has problems with painful movement will alert the nurse to any potential for decreased movement and increased risk for skin breakdown. Medications and falling are safety risk questions. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1196 OBJ: Complete an assessment for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Assessment MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

5. The nurse is admitting an older patient from a nursing home. During the assessment, the nurse notes a shallow open reddish, pink ulcer without slough on the right heel of the patient. How will the nurse stage this pressure ulcer? a. Stage I b. Stage II c. Stage III d. Stage IV

ANS: B This would be a Stage II pressure ulcer because it presents as partial-thickness skin loss involving epidermis and dermis. The ulcer presents clinically as an abrasion, blister, or shallow crater. Stage I is intact skin with nonblanchable redness over a bony prominence. With a Stage III pressure ulcer, subcutaneous fat may be visible, but bone, tendon, and muscles are not exposed. Stage IV involves full-thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, tendon, or muscle. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1187-1188 OBJ: Describe the pressure ulcer staging system. TOP: Assessment MSC: Physiological Adaptation

38. The nurse is caring for a patient who is immobile and is at risk for skin impairment. The plan of care includes turning the patient. Which is the best method for repositioning the patient? a. Place the patient in a 30-degree supine position. b. Utilize a transfer device to lift the patient. c. Elevate the head of the bed 45 degrees. d. Slide the patient into the new position.

ANS: B When repositioning the patient, obtain assistance and utilize a transfer device to lift rather than drag the patient. Sliding the patient into the new position will increase friction. The patient should be placed in a 30-degree lateral position, not a supine position. The head of the bed should be elevated less than 30 degrees to prevent pressure ulcer development from shearing forces. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1204 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort

4. The nurse is caring for a patient with potential skin breakdown. Which components will the nurse include in the skin assessment? (Select all that apply.) a. Vision b. Hyperemia c. Induration d. Blanching e. Temperature of skin

ANS: B, C, D, E Assessment of the skin includes both visual and tactile inspection. Assess for hyperemia and palpate for blanching or nonblaching. Early signs of skin damage include induration, bogginess (less-than-normal stiffness), and increased warmth at the injury site compared to nearby areas. Changes in temperature can indicate changes in blood flow to that area of the skin. Vision is not included in the skin assessment. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1186 | 1196 OBJ: Complete an assessment for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Assessment MSC: Health Promotion and Maintenance

6. The nurse is updating the plan of care for a patient with impaired skin integrity. Which findings indicate achievement of goals and outcomes? (Select all that apply.) a. The patient's expectations are not being met. b. Skin is intact with no redness or swelling. c. Nonblanchable erythema is absent. d. No injuries to the skin and tissues are evident. e. Granulation tissue is present.

ANS: B, C, D, E Optimal outcomes are to prevent injury to skin and tissues, reduce injury to skin, reduce injury to underlying tissues, and restore skin integrity. Skin intact, nonblanchable erythema absent, no injuries, and presence of granulation tissue are all findings indicating achievement of goals and outcomes. The patient's expectations not being met indicates no progression toward goals/outcomes. DIF: Analyze (analysis) REF: 1220 OBJ: State evaluation criteria for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Evaluation MSC: Management of Care

14. A nurse is caring for a postoperative patient. Which finding will alert the nurse to a potential wound dehiscence? a. Protrusion of visceral organs through a wound opening b. Chronic drainage of fluid through the incision site c. Report by patient that something has given way d. Drainage that is odorous and purulent

ANS: C Patients often report feeling as though something has given way with dehiscence. Dehiscence occurs when an incision fails to heal properly and the layers of skin and tissue separate. It involves abdominal surgical wounds and occurs after a sudden strain such as coughing, vomiting, or sitting up in bed. Evisceration is seen when vital organs protrude through a wound opening. When there is an increase in serosanguineous drainage from a wound in the first few days after surgery, be alert for the potential for dehiscence. Infection is characterized by drainage that is odorous and purulent. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1191-1192 OBJ: Describe complications of wound healing. TOP: Assessment MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

29. The nurse is caring for a patient with a Stage IV pressure ulcer. Which nursing diagnosis does the nurse add to the care plan? a. Readiness for enhanced nutrition b. Impaired physical mobility c. Impaired skin integrity d. Chronic pain

ANS: C After the assessment is completed and the information that the patient has a Stage IV pressure ulcer is gathered, a diagnosis of Impaired skin integrity is selected. Readiness for enhanced nutrition would be selected for an individual with an adequate diet that could be improved. Impaired physical mobility and Chronic pain do not support the current data in the question. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1199-1201 OBJ: List nursing diagnoses associated with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Planning MSC: Management of Care

19. The nurse is completing an assessment on a patient who has a Stage IV pressure ulcer. The wound is odorous, and a drain is currently in place. Which statement by the patient indicates issues with self-concept? a. "I am so weak and tired. I want to feel better." b. "I am thinking I will be ready to go home early next week." c. "I am ready for my bath and linen change right now since this is awful." d. "I am hoping there will be something good for dinner tonight."

ANS: C Body image changes can influence self-concept. The wound is odorous, and a drain is in place. The patient who is asking for a bath and change in linens and states that this is awful gives you a clue that he or she may be concerned about the smell in the room. Factors that affect the patient's perception of the wound include the presence of scars, drains, odor from drainage, and temporary or permanent prosthetic devices. The patient's stating that he or she wants to feel better, talking about going home, and caring about what is for dinner could be interpreted as positive statements that indicate progress along the health journey. DIF: Analyze (analysis) REF: 1195 OBJ: Explain the factors that impede or promote wound healing. TOP: Evaluation MSC: Psychosocial Integrity

41. The nurse is cleansing a wound site. As the nurse administers the procedure, which intervention should be included? a. Allow the solution to flow from the most contaminated to the least contaminated. b. Scrub vigorously when applying noncytotoxic solution to the skin. c. Cleanse in a direction from the least contaminated area. d. Utilize clean gauze and clean gloves to cleanse a site.

ANS: C Cleanse in a direction from the least contaminated area, such as from the wound or incision, to the surrounding skin. While cleansing surgical or traumatic wounds by applying noncytotoxic solution with sterile gauze or by irrigations is correct, vigorous scrubbing is inappropriate and can cause damage to the skin. Use gentle friction when applying solutions to the skin, and allow irrigation to flow from the least to the most contaminated area. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1213-1214 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

24. The nurse is caring for a patient with a pressure ulcer on the left hip. The ulcer is black. Which next step will the nurse anticipate? a. Monitor the wound. b. Document the wound. c. Debride the wound. d. Manage drainage from wound.

ANS: C Debridement is the removal of nonviable necrotic (black) tissue. Removal of necrotic tissue is necessary to rid the ulcer of a source of infection, to enable visualization of the wound bed, and to provide a clean base for healing. A wound will not move through the phases of healing if the wound is infected. Documentation occurs after completion of skill. When treating a pressure ulcer, it is important to monitor and reassess the wound at least every 8 hours. Management of drainage will help keep the wound clean, but that is not the next step. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1206-1207 OBJ: Describe the differences between nursing care of acute and chronic wounds. TOP: Planning MSC: Physiological Adaptation

9. The nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing a full-thickness repair. Which type of tissue will the nurse expect to observe when the wound is healing? a. Eschar b. Slough c. Granulation d. Purulent drainage

ANS: C Granulation tissue is red, moist tissue composed of new blood vessels, the presence of which indicates progression toward healing. Soft yellow or white tissue is characteristic of slough—a substance that needs to be removed for the wound to heal. Black or brown necrotic tissue is called eschar, which also needs to be removed for a wound to heal. Purulent drainage is indicative of an infection and will need to be resolved for the wound to heal. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1188 OBJ: Discuss the normal process of wound healing. TOP: Assessment MSC: Physiological Adaptation

5. The nurse is caring for a patient who will have both a large abdominal bandage and an abdominal binder. Which actions will the nurse take before applying the bandage and binder? (Select all that apply.) a. Cover exposed wounds. b. Mark the sites of all abrasions. c. Assess the condition of current dressings. d. Inspect the skin for abrasions and edema. e. Cleanse the area with hydrogen peroxide. f. Assess the skin at underlying areas for circulatory impairment.

ANS: A, C, D, F Before applying a bandage or a binder, the nurse has several responsibilities. The nurse would need to inspect the skin for abrasions, edema, and discoloration or exposed wound edges. The nurse also is responsible for covering exposed wounds or open abrasions with a dressing and assessing the condition of underlying dressings and changing if soiled, as well as assessing the skin of underlying areas that will be distal to the bandage. This checks for signs of circulatory impairment, so that a comparison can be made after bandages are applied. Marking the sites of all abrasions is not necessary. Although it is important for the skin to be clean, and even though it may need to be cleaned with a noncytotoxic cleanser, cleansing with hydrogen peroxide can interfere with wound healing. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1216 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort

MULTIPLE RESPONSE 1. The nurse is caring for a patient with a surgical incision that eviscerates. Which actions will the nurse take? (Select all that apply.) a. Place moist sterile gauze over the site. b. Gently place the organs back. c. Contact the surgical team. d. Offer a glass of water. e. Monitor for shock.

ANS: A, C, E The presence of an evisceration (protrusion of visceral organs through a wound opening) is a surgical emergency. Immediately place damp sterile gauze over the site, contact the surgical team, do not allow the patient anything by mouth (NPO), observe for signs and symptoms of shock, and prepare the patient for emergency surgery. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1192 OBJ: Describe complications of wound healing. TOP: Implementation MSC: Physiological Adaptation

1. The nurse is working on a medical-surgical unit that has been participating in a research project associated with pressure ulcers. The nurse recognizes that the risk factors that predispose a patient to pressure ulcer development include a. A diet low in calories and fat. b. Alteration in level of consciousness. c. Shortness of breath. d. Muscular pain.

ANS: B Patients who are confused or disoriented or who have changing levels of consciousness are unable to protect themselves. The patient may feel the pressure but may not understand what to do to relieve the discomfort or to communicate that he or she is feeling discomfort. Impaired sensory perception, impaired mobility, shear, friction, and moisture are other predisposing factors. Shortness of breath, muscular pain, and a diet low in calories and fat are not included among the predisposing factors.

20. A patient presents to the emergency department with a laceration of the right forearm caused by a fall. After determining that the patient is stable, what is the next best step for the nurse to take? a. Inspect the wound for foreign bodies. b. Inspect the wound for bleeding. c. Determine the size of the wound. d. Determine the need for a tetanus antitoxin injection.

ANS: B After determining that a patient's condition is stable, inspect the wound for bleeding. An abrasion will have limited bleeding, a laceration can bleed more profusely, and a puncture wound bleeds in relation to the size and depth of the wound. Address any bleeding issues. Inspect the wound for foreign bodies; traumatic wounds are dirty and may need to be addressed. Determine the size of the wound. A large open wound may expose bone or tissue and be protected, or the wound may need suturing. When the wound is caused by a dirty penetrating object, determine the need for a tetanus vaccination. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1198 OBJ: Describe the differences between nursing care of acute and chronic wounds. TOP: Implementation MSC: Management of Care

31. The nurse is caring for a patient who is immobile. The nurse wants to decrease the formation of pressure ulcers. Which action will the nurse take first? a. Offer favorite fluids. b. Turn the patient every 2 hours. c. Determine the patient's risk factors. d. Encourage increased quantities of carbohydrates and fats.

ANS: C The first step in prevention is to assess the patient's risk factors for pressure ulcer development. When a patient is immobile, the major risk to the skin is the formation of pressure ulcers. Nursing interventions focus on prevention. Offering favorite fluids, turning, and increasing carbohydrates and fats are not the first steps. Determining risk factors is first so interventions can be implemented to reduce or eliminate those risk factors. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1203 | 1221 OBJ: Complete an assessment for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Health Promotion and Maintenance

25. The nurse is caring for a patient with a healing Stage III pressure ulcer. The wound is clean and granulating. Which health care provider's order will the nurse question? a. Use a low-air-loss therapy unit. b. Irrigate with Dakin's solution. c. Apply a hydrogel dressing. d. Consult a dietitian.

ANS: B Clean pressure ulcers with noncytotoxic cleansers such as normal saline, which will not kill fibroblasts and healing tissue. Cytotoxic cleansers such as Dakin's solution, acetic acid, povidone-iodine, and hydrogen peroxide can hinder the healing process and should not be utilized on clean granulating wounds. Consulting a dietitian for the nutritional needs of the patient, utilizing a low-air-loss therapy unit to decrease pressure, and applying hydrogel dressings to provide a moist environment for healing are all orders that would be appropriate. DIF: Analyze (analysis) REF: 1205-1206 OBJ: Describe the differences between nursing care of acute and chronic wounds. TOP: Implementation MSC: Management of Care

40. The nurse is caring for a patient with a wound. The patient appears anxious as the nurse is preparing to change the dressing. Which action should the nurse take? a. Turn on the television. b. Explain the procedure. c. Tell the patient "Close your eyes." d. Ask the family to leave the room.

ANS: B Explaining the procedure educates the patient regarding the dressing change and involves him in the care, thereby allowing the patient some control in decreasing anxiety. Telling the patient to close the eyes and turning on the television are distractions that do not usually decrease a patient's anxiety. If the family is a support system, asking support systems to leave the room can actually increase a patient's anxiety. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1232 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Psychosocial Integrity

23. The nurse is caring for a patient who has a Stage IV pressure ulcer with grafted surgical sites. Which specialty bed will the nurse use for this patient? a. Low-air-loss b. Air-fluidized c. Lateral rotation d. Standard mattress

ANS: B For a patient with newly flapped or grafted surgical sites, the air-fluidized bed will be the best choice; this uses air and fluid support to provide pressure redistribution via a fluid-like medium created by forcing air through beads as characterized by immersion and envelopment. A low-air-loss bed is utilized for prevention or treatment of skin breakdown by preventing buildup of moisture and skin breakdown through the use of airflow. A standard mattress is utilized for an individual who does not have actual or potential altered or impaired skin integrity. Lateral rotation is used for treatment and prevention of pulmonary, venous stasis and urinary complications associated with mobility. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1206 OBJ: Describe the differences between nursing care of acute and chronic wounds. TOP: Planning MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

16. A nurse is caring for a patient with a wound. Which assessment data will be most important for the nurse to gather with regard to wound healing? a. Muscular strength assessment b. Pulse oximetry assessment c. Sensation assessment d. Sleep assessment

ANS: B Oxygen fuels the cellular functions essential to the healing process; the ability to perfuse tissues with adequate amounts of oxygenated blood is critical in wound healing. Pulse oximetry measures the oxygen saturation of blood. Assessment of muscular strength and sensation, although useful for fitness and mobility testing, does not provide any data with regard to wound healing. Sleep, although important for rest and for integration of learning and restoration of cognitive function, does not provide any data with regard to wound healing. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1195 OBJ: Explain the factors that impede or promote wound healing. TOP: Assessment MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

2. The nurse is caring for a patient who was involved in an automobile accident 2 weeks ago. The patient sustained a head injury and is unconscious. Which priority element will the nurse consider when planning care to decrease the development of a decubitus ulcer? a. Resistance b. Pressure c. Weight d. Stress

ANS: B Pressure is the main element that causes pressure ulcers. Three pressure-related factors contribute to pressure ulcer development: pressure intensity, pressure duration, and tissue tolerance. When the intensity of the pressure exerted on the capillary exceeds 15 to 32 mm Hg, this occludes the vessel, causing ischemic injury to the tissues it normally feeds. High pressure over a short time and low pressure over a long time cause skin breakdown. Resistance, stress, and weight are not the priority causes of pressure ulcers. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1185-1186 OBJ: Discuss the risk factors that contribute to pressure ulcer formation. TOP: Planning MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

18. The nurse is collaborating with the dietitian about a patient with a Stage III pressure ulcer. Which nutrient will the nurse most likely increase after collaboration with the dietitian? a. Fat b. Protein c. Vitamin E d. Carbohydrate

ANS: B Protein needs are especially increased in supporting the activity of wound healing. The physiological processes of wound healing depend on the availability of protein, vitamins (especially A and C), and the trace minerals of zinc and copper. Wound healing does not require increased amounts of fats or carbohydrates. Vitamin E will not be increased for wound healing. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1194 OBJ: Explain the factors that impede or promote wound healing. TOP: Planning MSC: Management of Care

32. The medical-surgical acute care patient has received a nursing diagnosis of Impaired skin integrity. Which health care team member will the nurse consult? a. Respiratory therapist b. Registered dietitian c. Case manager d. Chaplain

ANS: B Refer patients with pressure ulcers to the dietitian for early intervention for nutritional problems. Adequate calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals promote wound healing for the impaired skin integrity. The nurse is the coordinator of care, and collaborating with the dietitian would result in planning the best meals for the patient. The respiratory therapist can be consulted when a patient has issues with the respiratory system. Case management can be consulted when the patient has a discharge need. A chaplain can be consulted when the patient has a spiritual need. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1208 OBJ: Develop a nursing care plan for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Management of Care

7. The nurse is caring for a patient with a Stage IV pressure ulcer. Which type of healing will the nurse consider when planning care for this patient? a. Partial-thickness wound repair b. Full-thickness wound repair c. Primary intention d. Tertiary intention

ANS: B Stage IV pressure ulcers are full-thickness wounds that extend into the dermis and heal by scar formation because the deeper structures do not regenerate, hence the need for full-thickness repair. The full-thickness repair has four phases: hemostasis, inflammatory, proliferative, and maturation. A wound heals by primary intention when wounds such as surgical wounds have little tissue loss; the skin edges are approximated or closed, and the risk for infection is low. Partial-thickness repairs are done on partial-thickness wounds that are shallow, involving loss of the epidermis and maybe partial loss of the dermis. These wounds heal by regeneration because the epidermis regenerates. Tertiary intention is seen when a wound is left open for several days, and then the wound edges are approximated. Wound closure is delayed until risk of infection is resolved. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1187 | 1190 OBJ: Discuss the normal process of wound healing. TOP: Planning MSC: Physiological Adaptation

30. The nurse collects the following assessment data: right heel with reddened area that does not blanch. Which nursing diagnosis will the nurse assign to this patient? a. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements b. Ineffective peripheral tissue perfusion c. Risk for infection d. Acute pain

ANS: B The area on the heel has experienced a decreased supply of blood and oxygen (tissue perfusion), which has resulted in tissue damage. The most appropriate nursing diagnosis with this information is Ineffective peripheral tissue perfusion. Risk for infection, Acute pain, and Imbalanced nutrition do not support the data in the question. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1200 OBJ: List nursing diagnoses associated with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Diagnosis MSC: Management of Care

35. The nurse is performing a moist-to-dry dressing. The nurse has prepared the supplies, solution, and removed the old dressing. In which order will the nurse implement the steps, starting with the first one? 1. Apply sterile gloves. 2. Cover and secure topper dressing. 3. Assess wound and surrounding skin. 4. Moisten gauze with prescribed solution. 5. Gently wring out excess solution and unfold. 6. Loosely pack until all wound surfaces are in contact with gauze. a. 4, 3, 1, 5, 6, 2 b. 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 2 c. 4, 1, 3, 5, 6, 2 d. 1, 4, 3, 5, 6, 2

ANS: B The steps for a moist-to-dry dressing are as follows: (1) Apply sterile gloves; (2) assess appearance of surrounding skin; (3) moisten gauze with prescribed solution. (4) Gently wring out excess solution and unfold; apply gauze as single layer directly onto wound surface. (5) If wound is deep, gently pack dressing into wound base by hand until all wound surfaces are in contact with gauze; (6) cover with sterile dry gauze and secure topper dressing. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1228-1229 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort

8. The nurse is caring for a group of patients. Which patient will the nurse see first? a. A patient with a Stage IV pressure ulcer b. A patient with a Braden Scale score of 18 c. A patient with appendicitis using a heating pad d. A patient with an incision that is approximated

ANS: C The nurse should see the patient with an appendicitis first. Warm applications are contraindicated when the patient has an acute, localized inflammation such as appendicitis because the heat could cause the appendix to rupture. Although a Stage IV pressure ulcer is deep, it is not as critical as the appendicitis patient. The total Braden score ranges from 6 to 23; a lower total score indicates a higher risk for pressure ulcer development. A score of 18 can be assessed later. A healing incision is approximated (closed); this is a normal finding and does not need to be seen first. DIF: Analyze (analysis) REF: 1216 | 1218 OBJ: Complete an assessment for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Assessment MSC: Management of Care

4. The wound care nurse visits a patient in the long-term care unit. The nurse is monitoring a patient with a Stage III pressure ulcer. The wound seems to be healing, and healthy tissue is observed. How should the nurse document this ulcer in the patient's medical record? a. Stage I pressure ulcer b. Healing Stage II pressure ulcer c. Healing Stage III pressure ulcer d. Stage III pressure ulcer

ANS: C When a pressure ulcer has been staged and is beginning to heal, the ulcer keeps the same stage and is labeled with the words "healing stage" or healing Stage III pressure ulcer. Once an ulcer has been staged, the stage endures even as the ulcer heals. This ulcer was labeled a Stage III, and it cannot return to a previous stage such as Stage I or II. This ulcer is healing, so it is no longer labeled a Stage III. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1187 OBJ: Describe the pressure ulcer staging system. TOP: Implementation MSC: Physiological Adaptation

27. The nurse is completing a skin risk assessment using the Braden Scale. The patient has slight sensory impairment, has skin that is rarely moist, walks occasionally, and has slightly limited mobility, along with excellent intake of meals and no apparent problem with friction and shear. Which score will the nurse document for this patient? a. 15 b. 17 c. 20 d. 23

ANS: C With use of the Braden Scale, the total score is a 20. The patient receives 3 for slight sensory perception impairment, 4 for skin being rarely moist, 3 for walks occasionally, 3 for slightly limited mobility, 4 for intake of meals, and 4 for no problem with friction and shear. DIF: Analyze (analysis) REF: 1192-1193 OBJ: Complete an assessment for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Assessment MSC: Health Promotion and Maintenance

10. The nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a laparoscopic appendectomy. For which type of healing will the nurse focus the care plan? a. Partial-thickness repair b. Secondary intention c. Tertiary intention d. Primary intention

ANS: D A clean surgical incision is an example of a wound with little loss of tissue that heals with primary intention. The skin edges are approximated or closed, and the risk for infection is low. Partial-thickness repairs are done on partial-thickness wounds that are shallow, involving loss of the epidermis and maybe partial loss of the dermis. These wounds heal by regeneration because the epidermis regenerates. Tertiary intention is seen when a wound is left open for several days, and then the wound edges are approximated. Wound closure is delayed until the risk of infection is resolved. A wound involving loss of tissue such as a burn or a pressure ulcer or laceration heals by secondary intention. The wound is left open until it becomes filled with scar tissue. It takes longer for a wound to heal by secondary intention; thus the chance of infection is greater. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1190 OBJ: Describe the differences in wound healing by primary and secondary intention. TOP: Planning MSC: Physiological Adaptation

13. The nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a total abdominal hysterectomy. Which nursing observation of the incision will indicate the patient is experiencing a complication of wound healing? a. The site is hurting. b. The site is approximated. c. The site has started to itch. d. The site has a mass, bluish in color.

ANS: D A hematoma is a localized collection of blood underneath the tissues. It appears as swelling, change in color, sensation, or warmth or a mass that often takes on a bluish discoloration. A hematoma near a major artery or vein is dangerous because it can put pressure on the vein or artery and obstruct blood flow. Itching is not a complication. Incisions should be approximated with edges together; this is a sign of normal healing. After surgery, when nerves in the skin and tissues have been traumatized by the surgical procedure, it is expected that the patient will experience pain. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1191 OBJ: Describe complications of wound healing. TOP: Assessment MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

12. A nurse is assessing a patient's wound. Which nursing observation will indicate the wound healed by secondary intention? a. Minimal loss of tissue function b. Permanent dark redness at site c. Minimal scar tissue d. Scarring that may be severe

ANS: D A wound healing by secondary intention takes longer than one healing by primary intention. The wound is left open until it becomes filled with scar tissue. If the scarring is severe, permanent loss of function often occurs. Wounds that heal by primary intention heal quickly with minimal scarring. Scar tissue contains few pigmented cells and has a lighter color than normal skin. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1190 OBJ: Describe the differences in wound healing by primary and secondary intention. TOP: Assessment MSC: Physiological Adaptation

28. The nurse is caring for a surgical patient. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to complete to decrease the risk of pressure ulcers and encourage the patient's willingness and ability to increase mobility? a. Explain the risks of immobility to the patient. b. Turn the patient every 3 hours while in bed. c. Encourage the patient to sit up in the chair. d. Provide analgesic medication as ordered.

ANS: D Maintaining adequate pain control (providing analgesic medications) and patient comfort increases the patient's willingness and ability to increase mobility, which in turn reduces pressure ulcer risks. Although sitting in the chair is beneficial, it does not increase mobility or provide pain control. Explaining the risk of immobility is important for the patient because it may impact the patient's willingness but not his or her ability. Turning the patient is important for decreasing pressure ulcers but needs to be done every 2 hours and, again, does not influence the patient's ability to increase mobility. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1197-1198 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

44. The patient has a risk for skin impairment and has a 15 on the Braden Scale upon admission. The nurse has implemented interventions. Upon reassessment, which Braden score will be the best sign that the risk for skin breakdown is removed? a. 12 b. 13 c. 20 d. 23

ANS: D The best sign is a perfect score of 23. The Braden Scale is composed of six subscales: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction and shear. The total score ranges from 6 to 23, and a lower total score indicates a higher risk for pressure ulcer development. The cutoff score for onset of pressure ulcer risk with the Braden Scale in the general adult population is 18. DIF: Analyze (analysis) REF: 1192 OBJ: State evaluation criteria for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Evaluation MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

42. The nurse is caring for a patient after an open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The nurse requests an abdominal binder and carefully applies the binder. Which is the best explanation for the nurse to use when teaching the patient the reason for the binder? a. It reduces edema at the surgical site. b. It secures the dressing in place. c. It immobilizes the abdomen. d. It supports the abdomen.

ANS: D The patient has a large abdominal incision. This incision will need support, and an abdominal binder will support this wound, especially during movement, as well as during deep breathing and coughing. A binder can be used to immobilize a body part (e.g., an elastic bandage applied around a sprained ankle). A binder can be used to prevent edema, for example, in an extremity but in this case is not used to reduce edema at a surgical site. A binder can be used to secure dressings such as elastic webbing applied around a leg after vein stripping. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1208 | 1213 | 1216 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Teaching/Learning MSC: Basic Care and Comfort

6. The nurse is completing a skin assessment on a patient with darkly pigmented skin. Which item should the nurse use first to assist in staging an ulcer on this patient? a. Disposable measuring tape b. Cotton-tipped applicator c. Sterile gloves d. Halogen light

ANS: D When assessing a patient with darkly pigmented skin, proper lighting is essential to accurately complete the first step in assessment—inspection—and the entire assessment process. Natural light or a halogen light is recommended. Fluorescent light sources can produce blue tones on darkly pigmented skin and can interfere with an accurate assessment. Other items that could possibly be used during the assessment include gloves for infection control, a disposable measuring device to measure the size of the wound, and a cotton-tipped applicator to measure the depth of the wound, but these items are not the first items used. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1186 OBJ: Describe the pressure ulcer staging system. TOP: Assessment MSC: Health Promotion and Maintenance

33. The nurse is caring for a patient with a Stage II pressure ulcer and has assigned a nursing diagnosis of Risk for infection. The patient is unconscious and bedridden. The nurse is completing the plan of care and is writing goals for the patient. Which is the best goal for this patient? a. The patient will state what to look for with regard to an infection. b. The patient's family will demonstrate specific care of the wound site. c. The patient's family members will wash their hands when visiting the patient. d. The patient will remain free of odorous or purulent drainage from the wound.

ANS: D Because the patient has an open wound and the skin is no longer intact to protect the tissue, the patient is at increased risk for infection. The nurse will be assessing the patient for signs and symptoms of infection, including an increase in temperature, an increase in white count, and odorous and purulent drainage from the wound. The patient is unconscious and is unable to communicate the signs and symptoms of infection. It is important for the patient's family to be able to demonstrate how to care for the wound and wash their hands, but these statements are not goals or outcomes for this nursing diagnosis. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1200 | 1201 OBJ: Develop a nursing care plan for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Planning MSC: Management of Care

43. The nurse is caring for a postoperative medial meniscus repair of the right knee. Which action should the nurse take to assist with pain management? a. Monitor vital signs every 15 minutes. b. Check pulses in the right foot. c. Keep the leg dependent. d. Apply ice.

ANS: D Ice assists in preventing edema formation, controlling bleeding, and anesthetizing the body part. Elevation (not dependent) assists in preventing edema, which in turn can cause pain. Monitoring vital signs every 15 minutes is routine postoperative care and includes a pain assessment but in itself is not an intervention that decreases pain. Checking the pulses is important to monitor the circulation of the extremity but in itself is not a pain management intervention. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1219-1220 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort

11. The nurse is caring for a patient in the burn unit. Which type of wound healing will the nurse consider when planning care for this patient? a. Partial-thickness repair b. Secondary intention c. Tertiary intention d. Primary intention

ANS: B A wound involving loss of tissue such as a burn or a pressure ulcer or laceration heals by secondary intention. The wound is left open until it becomes filled with scar tissue. It takes longer for a wound to heal by secondary intention; thus the chance of infection is greater. A clean surgical incision is an example of a wound with little loss of tissue that heals by primary intention. The skin edges are approximated or closed, and the risk for infection is low. Partial-thickness repair is done on partial-thickness wounds that are shallow, involving loss of the epidermis and maybe partial loss of the dermis. These wounds heal by regeneration because the epidermis regenerates. Tertiary intention is seen when a wound is left open for several days, and then the wound edges are approximated. Wound closure is delayed until the risk of infection is resolved. DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1190 OBJ: Describe the differences in wound healing by primary and secondary intention. TOP: Planning MSC: Physiological Adaptation

34. The nurse is caring for a group of patients. Which task can the nurse delegate to the nursing assistive personnel? a. Assessing a surgical patient for risk of pressure ulcers b. Applying an elastic bandage to a medical-surgical patient c. Treating a pressure ulcer on the buttocks of a medical patient d. Implementing negative-pressure wound therapy on a stable patient

ANS: B Applying an elastic bandage to a medical-surgical patient can be delegated to the nursing assistive personnel (NAP). Assessing pressure ulcer risk, treating a pressure ulcer, and implementing negative-pressure wound therapy cannot be delegated to an NAP. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1236 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Management of Care

15. A patient has developed a pressure ulcer. Which laboratory data will be important for the nurse to check? a. Vitamin E b. Potassium c. Albumin d. Sodium

ANS: C Normal wound healing requires proper nutrition. Serum proteins are biochemical indicators of malnutrition, and serum albumin is probably the most frequently measured of these parameters. The best measurement of nutritional status is prealbumin because it reflects not only what the patient has ingested but also what the body has absorbed, digested, and metabolized. Zinc and copper are the minerals important for wound healing, not potassium and sodium. Vitamins A and C are important for wound healing, not vitamin E. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1194-1195 OBJ: Explain the factors that impede or promote wound healing. TOP: Assessment MSC: Reduction of Risk Potential

The nurse is caring for a patient on the medical-surgical unit with a wound that has a drain and a dressing that needs changing. Which of these actions should the nurse take first? a. Don sterile gloves. b. Provide analgesic medications as ordered. c. Avoid accidentally removing the drain. d. Gather supplies.

B

The nurse is caring for a patient who has a stage IV pressure ulcer awaiting plastic surgery consultation. Which of the following specialty beds would be most appropriate? a. Standard mattress b. Nonpowered redistribution air mattress c. Low-air-loss therapy unit d. Lateral rotation

B

The nurse is working on a medical-surgical unit that has been participating in a research project associated with pressure ulcers. The nurse recognizes that the risk factors that predispose a patient to pressure ulcer development include a. A diet low in calories and fat. b. Alteration in level of consciousness. c. Shortness of breath. d. Muscular pain.

B

The nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing a full-thickness repair. The nurse would expect to see which of the following in this type of repair? a. Eschar b. Slough c. Granulation d. Purulent drainage

C

The nurse is caring for a postoperative medial meniscus repair of the right knee. To assist with pain management following the procedure, which intervention should the nurse implement? a. Monitor vital signs every 15 minutes. b. Apply brace to right knee. c. Elevate right knee and apply ice. d. Check pulses in right foot.

C

The nurse is collaborating with the dietitian about a patient with a stage III pressure ulcer. After the collaboration, the nurse orders a meal plan that includes increased a. Fat. b. Carbohydrates. c. Protein. d. Vitamin E.

C

The nurse is completing a skin risk assessment utilizing the Braden scale. The patient has some sensory impairment and skin that is rarely moist, walks occasionally, and has slightly limited mobility, along with excellent intake of meals and no apparent problem with friction and shear. What would be the patient's Braden scale total score? a. 15 b. 17 c. 20 d. 23

C

The nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a laparoscopic appendectomy. The nurse recalls that this type of wound heals by a. Tertiary intention. b. Secondary intention. c. Partial-thickness repair. d. Primary intention.

D

The patient has been provided a nursing diagnosis of Risk for skin impairment and has a 15 on the Braden scale upon admission. The nurse has implemented interventions for this nursing diagnosis. Upon reassessment, which Braden score would be the best sign that the risk for skin breakdown is decreasing? a. 12 b. 13 c. 20 d. 23

D

Which nursing observation would indicate that a wound healed by secondary intention? a. Minimal scar tissue b. Minimal loss of tissue function c. Permanent dark redness at site d. Scarring can be severe.

D

MATCHING The nurse is caring for patients who need wound dressings. Match the type of dressing the nurse applies to its description. a. Absorbs drainage through the use of exudate absorbers in the dressing b. Very soothing to the patient and do not adhere to the wound bed c. Barrier to external fluids/bacteria but allows wound to "breathe" d. Manufactured from seaweed and comes in sheet and rope form e. Oldest and most common absorbent dressing 1. Gauze 2. Transparent 3. Hydrocolloid 4. Hydrogel 5. Calcium alginate

1. ANS: E DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1209-1210 | 1211 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort 2. ANS: C DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1209-1210 | 1211 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort 3. ANS: A DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1209-1210 | 1211 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort 4. ANS: B DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1209-1210 | 1211 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort 5. ANS: D DIF: Understand (comprehension) REF: 1209-1210 | 1211 OBJ: List appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Implementation MSC: Basic Care and Comfort

26. The nurse is completing an assessment of the patient's skin's integrity. Which assessment is the priority? a. Pressure points b. Breath sounds c. Bowel sounds d. Pulse points

ANS: A Observe pressure points such as bony prominences. The nurse continually assesses the skin for signs of ulcer development. Assessment for tissue pressure damage includes visual and tactile inspection of the skin. Assessment of pulses, breath sounds, and bowel sounds is part of a head-to-toe assessment and could influence the function of the body and ultimately skin integrity; however, this assessment is not a specific part or priority of a skin assessment. DIF: Apply (application) REF: 1196 | 1221 OBJ: Complete an assessment for a patient with impaired skin integrity. TOP: Assessment MSC: Management of Care