Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What characterizes a stage 3 pressure injury?

1. Partial-thickness skin loss

2. Full-thickness skin loss

3. Exposure of bone or muscle

4. Presence of necrotic tissue

The correct answer is: Full-thickness skin loss

A stage 3 pressure injury is characterized by full-thickness skin loss. This means that the entire dermis and into the subcutaneous tissue is affected, creating a wound that may extend down to, but not through, the underlying fascia. At this stage, the injury does not involve the bone, muscle, or tendon, which helps differentiate it from more severe stages. The identification of stage 3 is critical in wound assessment because it indicates a significant level of tissue damage that necessitates appropriate wound care interventions. Recognizing this stage is essential for both treatment planning and for the prevention of further complications, such as infection or deeper tissue injury. A thorough understanding of these stages aids healthcare providers in effectively managing and documenting pressure injuries.