Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is a notable feature of premature infant skin?

1. Thicker and more resilient

2. Very thin with increased fluid loss

3. More melanin production

4. Fully developed functional stratum corneum

The correct answer is: Very thin with increased fluid loss

The notable feature of premature infant skin is that it is very thin with increased fluid loss. This characteristic arises because the skin of premature infants has not had the opportunity to develop the thickness and protective barriers that full-term infants possess. The stratum corneum, which is the outer layer of the skin responsible for providing a barrier to environmental factors and preventing moisture loss, is underdeveloped in premature infants. This thinness and immaturity make their skin more susceptible to transepidermal water loss, leading to higher risks of dehydration and skin breakdown. In contrast, thicker skin would imply better protection and resilience, which does not apply to premature infants. Increased melanin production typically occurs with maturity and exposure to the environment, making that option less relevant for premature infants. Additionally, a fully developed functional stratum corneum is a feature of full-term infants, not premature ones, highlighting the vulnerability of their skin. Understanding these characteristics is essential in providing the appropriate care for premature infants to help minimize complications.