Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is the first step in treating a Type 1 skin tear?

1. Apply zinc oxide paste

2. Cleanse and roll back the viable flap

3. Dress with a nonadherent foam

4. Wrap with gauze and tape

The correct answer is: Cleanse and roll back the viable flap

The first step in treating a Type 1 skin tear involves cleansing the area and gently rolling back the viable flap of skin. This approach is crucial because Type 1 skin tears feature a partial thickness loss where the flap of skin remains attached but may be lifted or dislodged. By carefully rolling the flap back into its original position, the wound is more likely to benefit from optimal healing conditions, promoting re-epithelialization and preserving the underlying tissue. Gently cleansing the wound at this stage is essential to remove any debris or contaminants that could hinder healing or lead to infection. Correctly managing the flap is vital, as it allows the natural healing mechanisms to take place, reducing the risk of complications associated with skin tear wounds. Other options, while they may be involved in later stages of care or for different types of wounds, do not address the immediate priority of repositioning the flap. Using zinc oxide paste may be suitable for other skin conditions but is not a primary treatment step for a Type 1 skin tear. Dressing with nonadherent foam or wrapping with gauze and tape can be important but occur after the flap has been properly positioned.