Question

Friction and shear are mechanical forces that contribute to the development of pressure ulcers. Which of the following is an example of shear injury? A. Lying on a firm surface that does not distribute weight B. Resting in a semi-sitting position that allows gradual downward movement C. Rubbing or irritating the skin so that epithelial cells are removed D. Compression of blood vessels that leads to ischemia, inflammation, and tissue necrosis

Short answer

Answer: B. Resting in a semi-sitting position that allows gradual downward movement

Step-by-step solution

Understand the meaning of shear injury

Shear injury occurs when uneven tension is applied to different layers of tissue, causing them to slide against each other. This can lead to damage to the blood vessels, tissues, and ultimately result in pressure ulcers.

Analyze each option

A. Lying on a firm surface that does not distribute weight - This option describes a situation where the pressure is not evenly distributed over the body due to the firmness of the surface. It does not mention any sliding of tissue layers, so this is not an example of shear injury. B. Resting in a semi-sitting position that allows gradual downward movement – In this option, the patient is in a position where gravity is causing a gradual downward movement of the body. This can cause the skin and deeper tissues to slide against each other, resulting in shear injury. C. Rubbing or irritating the skin so that epithelial cells are removed - This option describes a situation where there is physical abrasion and rubbing of the skin, causing cell removal. While this can lead to skin breakdown, it is not an example of shear injury. D. Compression of blood vessels that leads to ischemia, inflammation, and tissue necrosis – This option talks about the compression of blood vessels, resulting in a lack of blood flow and tissue damage. While this can contribute to pressure ulcers, it does not describe the sliding of tissue layers. Thus, it is not an example of shear injury.

Identify the correct answer

Based on the analysis of each option, the correct answer is B. Resting in a semi-sitting position that allows gradual downward movement, as this option describes a situation where shear injury can occur due to sliding of tissue layers.