Wound Treatment Associate (WTA) Practice Exam

When should nutritional support and hydration be monitored for pressure injury prevention?

1. Only after visible wounds appear

2. In patients with a history of unplanned weight loss

3. When symptoms of pressure injuries are present

4. Regularly, regardless of condition

The correct answer is: In patients with a history of unplanned weight loss

Monitoring nutritional support and hydration is crucial for pressure injury prevention. The correct choice emphasizes the significance of tracking these factors in patients with a history of unplanned weight loss. Such patients are at increased risk for developing pressure injuries, as inadequate nutrition can impair skin integrity and delay healing. Regular assessment of nutritional intake and hydration status in this population helps identify and address deficiencies before they lead to complications. Unplanned weight loss often indicates underlying issues such as malnutrition, dehydration, or other health challenges, which can severely impact skin health and the body's ability to manage pressure effectively. In contrast, the other timing options for monitoring do not address the proactive approach necessary for prevention. Only starting to monitor after wounds appear or when symptoms are present may allow for significant damage before intervention occurs. Regular checks, regardless of condition, are advisable, but focusing on at-risk populations—like those with weight loss—provides targeted care that can effectively mitigate risk factors associated with pressure injuries.