Wound Treatment Associate (WTA) Practice Exam

Question: 1 / 400

Describe one major risk factor for developing pressure ulcers.

Immobility or limited mobility

Immobility or limited mobility is a significant risk factor for developing pressure ulcers due to the lack of movement, which can lead to prolonged pressure on specific areas of the skin. When a person is immobile, there is an increased risk for tissue ischemia, where blood flow to the skin is restricted, making the tissues more susceptible to injury. This is particularly critical over bony prominences, where the skin is more vulnerable, such as the heels, sacrum, and elbows.

In contrast, high levels of hydration typically support skin integrity and prevent breakdown, while aged skin, although it may be more susceptible to injury due to structural changes, is not as directly linked to the pressure-related injuries as immobility. Frequent ambulation is generally protective against pressure ulcers, as movement promotes circulation and distributes pressure more evenly across the skin, thus mitigating the risk of skin breakdown.

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High levels of hydration

Aged skin

Frequent ambulation

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