Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What characterizes a stage III pressure ulcer?

1. Partial-thickness tissue loss with exposed dermis

2. Full-thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, tendon or muscle

3. Full-thickness tissue loss with subcutaneous fat exposed

4. Covered base with slough or eschar

The correct answer is: Full-thickness tissue loss with subcutaneous fat exposed

A stage III pressure ulcer is characterized by full-thickness tissue loss where subcutaneous fat is exposed, but bone, tendon, or muscle are not visible. This stage involves damage to the skin and underlying tissue, indicating that the ulcer has progressed beyond superficial layers and has penetrated deeper into the tissue, but it does not extend down to the underlying structures in a way that would expose them. Proper identification of pressure ulcers is crucial in clinical settings to ensure appropriate treatment and management. In stage III, the ulcer can be accompanied by slough or eschar but the important aspect to note is the exposure of subcutaneous fat without visibility of deeper structures. This classification aids healthcare providers in determining the severity of the ulcer and planning effective interventions to promote healing and prevent further complications.