Wound Types

Question 1

Types of Acute Wounds

Answer 1

Abrasion - wound caused by shear forces
Avulsion - wound caused by tension which removes skin from underlying structures
Incisional - wound associated with surgery
Laceration - tear of tissues associated with trauma
Penetrating - wound that enters interior of organ or cavity
Puncture - wound caused by sharp pointed object
Skin tear - trauma to fragile skin

Question 2

Arterial Insufficiency Ulcers

Answer 2

Wound due to inadequate circulation of O2 blood (ischemia) often due to complicating factors.

Question 3

Recommendations for Arterial Ulcers

Answer 3

Rest
Limb protection
Education
LE skin checks daily
Avoid LE elevation
Avoid using heating pads

Question 4

Venous Insufficiency Ulcers

Answer 4

Wound due to impaired functioning of venous system resulting in inadequate circulation and tissue damage.

Question 5

Recommendations for Venous Ulcers

Answer 5

Limb protection
Education
LE skin checks daily
Compression for Edema
Elevation
Active Exercise

Question 6

Neuropathic Ulcers

Answer 6

Wounds due to secondary complication associated with ischemia and neuropathy. Often associated with diabetes.

Question 7

Recommendations for Neuropathic Ulcers

Answer 7

Limb protection
Education
LE skin checks daily
Proper footwear

Question 8

Characteristics of Arterial Ulcers

Answer 8

Location: lower leg, toes, and dorsal foot.
Appearance: Smooth edges, well defined, tend to be deep
Exudate: Minimal
Pain: severe
Pedal Pulses: diminished or absent
Edema: normal
Decreased skin temperature
Typically thin and shiny skin w/ hair loss and yellow nails

Question 9

Characteristics of Venous Ulcers

Answer 9

Location: proximal to the medial malleolus
Appearance: irregular shape and shallow
Exudate: Moderate/heavy
Pain: mild to moderate
Pedal Pulses: normal
Edema: Increased
Normal skin temperature
Typically flaky and dry skin w/ brownish discoloration

Question 10

Characteristics of Neuropathic Ulcers

Answer 10

Location: Areas of feet with higher pressure
Appearance: well defined oval or circle, cracked peri wound tissue, little to no wound bed
Exudate: low/moderate
Pain: none
Pedal Pulses: diminished or absent
Edema: normal
Decreased skin temperature
Typically dry, inelastic, shiny skin