Colorado CNA Practice Exam

The first sign of skin breakdown is:

1. Pale, white, reddened, or purple skin

2. Swelling and pus formation

3. Complete skin loss

4. Bleeding and deep tissue injury

The correct answer is: Pale, white, reddened, or purple skin

The correct answer highlights the initial visual signs indicating skin breakdown, which include pale, white, reddened, or purple skin. These colors reflect changes in circulation and can signal potential pressure ulcers or other skin integrity issues. When the skin appears reddened or discolored, it suggests that there is compromised blood flow to the area, which can lead to tissue damage if not addressed promptly. In contrast, the other options describe more advanced stages of skin breakdown or complications. For instance, swelling and pus formation indicate an infection and possibly more severe damage, while complete skin loss represents a late stage where the integrity of the skin has already been severely compromised. Bleeding and deep tissue injury refer to significant and often irreversible damage, which requires immediate and intensive medical intervention. Recognizing the earlier signs of skin breakdown is crucial for prevention and effective care.