Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam

What is a common cause of excoriation in the perineal area?

1. Infection

2. Scratching

3. Friction

4. Moisture

The correct answer is: Scratching

The choice of scratching as a common cause of excoriation in the perineal area recognizes that mechanical irritation from the act of scratching can lead to damage of the skin. Scratching can occur as a response to itching, which often arises from a variety of underlying issues such as allergies, irritation, or infections. When the skin in the perineal area is scratched, it can disrupt the epidermal layer, leading to abrasions, inflammation, and subsequent excoriation. Friction can also contribute to skin issues in sensitive areas, often exacerbated by movement or the presence of clothing. While moisture is a notable factor in skin integrity that can lead to conditions such as maceration, it is the direct mechanical action of scratching that primarily results in excoriation. Infection, while a potential cause of itching, typically leads to other symptoms and wouldn’t directly produce excoriation unless there is accompanying irritation prompting scratching.