Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam

Your patient with urinary incontinence presents with a superficial wound on the fatty tissue of the left buttock with diffuse and irregular edges. What type of wound does this MOST likely represent?

1. Venous ulcer

2. Pressure injury

3. Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD)

4. Diabetic foot ulcer

The correct answer is: Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD)

The wound described in the scenario exhibits characteristics that align closely with incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). This type of skin condition arises when skin is exposed to moisture, typically from urine or feces, leading to inflammation and damage. The superficial nature of the wound indicates that it has not penetrated deep into the skin layers, which is consistent with IAD since these injuries are typically limited to the epidermis and upper dermis. Moreover, the diffuse and irregular edges of the wound reflect the moist environment that supports the spread of dermatitis rather than a well-defined border that might be seen in pressure injuries or venous ulcers. Incontinence-associated dermatitis can develop rapidly, particularly in individuals who are experiencing urinary incontinence, emphasizing the crucial role moisture plays in its formation. The other wound types listed, such as venous ulcers, pressure injuries, and diabetic foot ulcers, have distinct presentations. Venous ulcers generally occur on the lower extremities and are associated with venous insufficiency. Pressure injuries are characterized by localized damage to the skin and underlying tissue that is usually over a bony prominence and often have well-defined edges. Diabetic foot ulcers typically occur on the feet of individuals with diabetes and present differently, often associated with neuropathy and ischemia. Understanding