Consolidated Political Compass Test (CPCT) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The first sign of skin breakdown in a patient is discoloration or redness. This occurs due to pressure-related injury, when the skin reacts to increased pressure, commonly found in individuals who are immobilized or have limited mobility. The redness is often referred to as hyperemia, indicating that blood flow has increased to the area in response to pressure. If this redness does not resolve after the pressure is relieved, it can advance to more severe stages of skin breakdown, such as blistering or ulceration.

Puffiness or swelling may indicate inflammation or fluid accumulation, but it is not the initial response to localized pressure on the skin. Itching or rash can signify allergic reactions or dermatological conditions rather than skin breakdown specifically related to pressure. Flaking or peeling skin represents more advanced stages of skin damage or dryness but are not the first indications that skin integrity is being compromised. Thus, the presence of discoloration or redness serves as the critical warning sign for impending skin breakdown, allowing for early intervention to prevent further damage.