Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is a characteristic of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD)?

1. Only occurs with friction

2. Begins with inflammation and progresses to skin loss

3. Is always caused by allergic reactions

4. Has no association with moisture

The correct answer is: Begins with inflammation and progresses to skin loss

Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is characterized by a skin condition that begins with inflammation and can progress to skin loss. The initial stages of IAD involve erythema (redness) and irritation of the skin due to prolonged exposure to moisture, urine, or stool. If not properly managed, this condition can worsen, leading to further skin breakdown and ultimately skin loss. The inflammation is a result of the skin's reaction to irritants, and if left unchecked, it can lead to more serious complications, including ulceration. The first option suggests that IAD only occurs with friction, which is inaccurate, as moisture plays a significant role in its development. The third option implies that allergic reactions are always the cause of IAD, which overlooks the primary factors of moisture and irritants involved. Finally, stating that IAD has no association with moisture contradicts the fundamental aspects of this condition, where moisture is a key contributing factor. Therefore, recognizing the progression from inflammation to potential skin loss is crucial for understanding and managing IAD effectively.