An injury to the skin caused by a sharp cut of an object is called ______ .

Appeared in: SCTIMST Staff Nurse - 2015 (Set-B)

Explanation

An incision is defined as a wound made by a sharp object, resulting in a clean cut through the skin.
The key characteristic of an incision is its straight, regular edges, which directly matches the question's description of a 'sharp cut'.
Surgical wounds are a common example of incisions, created with a scalpel for precision.
The length of an incised wound is typically greater than its depth.

Option A: An abrasion is a superficial wound caused by scraping or rubbing the skin against a rough surface, not a sharp cut. It affects the outermost layers of the skin (epidermis).
Option B: An avulsion is a severe injury where a flap of skin and tissue is torn loose or completely detached from the body. It is caused by a tearing force, not a clean cut.
Option D: A puncture wound is caused by a sharp, pointed object penetrating the skin, creating a small entry point but potentially deep tissue damage. The depth is greater than the length.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Classification of Wounds helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Accurate wound identification is a critical nursing skill as it determines the appropriate cleaning, dressing, and closure technique.
Incisions, especially surgical ones, have a lower risk of infection compared to other traumatic wounds because they are clean and can be closed easily, minimizing exposure to bacteria.
Puncture wounds carry a high risk of infection, including tetanus, because bacteria can be carried deep into the tissue where the low-oxygen environment allows anaerobic bacteria to thrive.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key descriptive words in the question stem. Here, the crucial phrase is 'sharp cut'.
Next, review the definitions of each option.
An 'abrasion' is a scrape.
An 'avulsion' is a tear.
An 'incision' is a cut.
A 'puncture' is a hole.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 6 p. 71-73

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 746-748

Practise the full SCTIMST Staff Nurse - 2015 (Set-B)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.