Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Which of the following is a common skin condition associated with aging?

1. Increased elasticity

2. Thicker epidermis

3. Increased risk of malignant lesions

4. Enhanced sensation

The correct answer is: Increased risk of malignant lesions

The correct answer highlights a significant concern in aging skin, which is the increased risk of malignant lesions. As individuals age, various changes occur in the skin, one of which is a decrease in the skin's ability to repair itself and respond to environmental factors. Among these changes, the cumulative effects of sun exposure over a lifetime can lead to DNA damage in skin cells, resulting in a higher likelihood of skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Additionally, with aging, there is a reduction in the skin’s immune response, which can make older adults more susceptible to the development of these malignant lesions. This aspect of skin health is crucial for wound care and ostomy management, as any lesions can complicate healing and overall skin integrity. In contrast, the other options present aspects that either do not correlate with aging skin or are opposite to the common conditions seen as people age. For example, increased elasticity and a thicker epidermis are not characteristics associated with aging; instead, skin tends to lose elasticity and can become thinner as one grows older. Enhanced sensation is also not typical, as many older individuals experience diminished sensory perception in their skin.