Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Which of the following is a systemic symptom of vasculitic ulcers?

1. Increased appetite

2. Malaise

3. Shortness of breath

4. Skin rash

The correct answer is: Malaise

Malaise is recognized as a systemic symptom of vasculitic ulcers because it reflects a general feeling of discomfort or unease often associated with inflammation in the body. Vasculitis involves the inflammation of blood vessels, which can affect various organs and lead to systemic symptoms. This heightened state of inflammation triggers responses throughout the body, which can manifest as malaise, fatigue, or overall unwellness. In contrast, the other options, such as increased appetite, shortness of breath, and skin rash, are not typically associated with the systemic presentation of vasculitic ulcers. Increased appetite is generally not a symptom of systemic illness; rather, many systemic conditions often lead to a decreased appetite. While shortness of breath can occur in various health conditions, it is not a direct systemic symptom of vasculitis itself, as vasculitic ulcers primarily affect the skin and underlying blood vessels. Skin rash may be related to the localized symptoms of vasculitis but is not considered a systemic effect, as it primarily indicates localized changes rather than systemic involvement. Understanding these differences is critical for identifying and managing vasculitic ulcers effectively.