National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which description is consistent with a macerated wound?

1. Wrinkled, pale, and soft

2. Red, warm, and swollen

3. Ecchymosis, shiny, and edematous

4. Yellow, uneven, and firm

The correct answer is: Wrinkled, pale, and soft

A macerated wound is characterized by tissue that is wrinkled, pale, and soft due to prolonged exposure to moisture. This type of wound typically occurs when skin is in contact with excessive fluid, such as from urine or water, leading to a breakdown of skin integrity. The wrinkling indicates that the skin has absorbed moisture, and being pale suggests a lack of normal blood flow due to the moisture affecting the tissue. The softness indicates that the tissue has lost its firmness, making it more vulnerable to further injury or infection. In contrast, descriptions involving warmth, swelling, or specific colors like yellow, red, or shiny suggest different pathophysiological processes, such as inflammation or infection, rather than the state of maceration. Hence, the key indicators of maceration are the combination of wrinkling, paleness, and softness of the wound.