A patient with darkly pigmented skin is on bed rest and is being assessed for a possible stage I pressure ulcer.What datum about the area of concern will best help the nurse determine the correct staging assessment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Early detection of pressure ulcers for a patient with dark skin is problematic because initial skin changes are difficult to distinguish.Characteristics of impaired skin integrity for patients with dark skin include changes in skin color,especially skin darkening or areas of purplish or bluish tones as cells begin to exhibit clinical indications of hypoxia.If the skin is already broken,the patient is not "at risk" but rather has a skin integrity issue.The tissue can be warmer or cooler than adjacent tissue.Blanching may not be visible in a person with darkly pigmented skin.

A Patient with Darkly Pigmented Skin Is on Bed Rest