Home Health Aide Practice Exam

What is one of the first signs that a pressure ulcer is forming?

1. Swelling of the area

2. Discoloration of the skin

3. Redness and warmth

4. Separation of the skin layers

The correct answer is: Discoloration of the skin

Discoloration of the skin is one of the initial signs that a pressure ulcer is forming. When pressure is applied to the skin, particularly over bony areas, blood flow can become restricted. This inadequate blood supply leads to changes in skin color, which is often one of the first observable symptoms. In the early stages of a pressure ulcer, the skin may appear red or discolored, especially on lighter skin tones, while darker skin might show a different kind of discoloration, such as a darker hue or an ashen tone. This discoloration indicates potential damage to the skin and underlying tissues that needs to be addressed to prevent further complications. Other signs like swelling, redness and warmth, and skin layer separation tend to occur later in the development of a pressure ulcer. For instance, swelling might be indicative of inflammation following the initial skin discoloration, while redness and warmth suggest ongoing pressure that is leading to further tissue deterioration. Separation of skin layers is a more advanced sign, indicating that the ulcer has progressed to a more severe state where the integrity of the skin is compromised. Thus, while these symptoms are concerning, their appearance comes after the early warning signs, such as discoloration.