Which statement about abrasions is true?

Which statement about abrasions is true?

• A. An abrasion is a deep wound from tearing the skin.
• B. An abrasion is a superficial wound from scraping the skin.
• C. An abrasion is a puncture wound.
• D. An abrasion bleeds heavily.

Answer: (B)

An abrasion is a superficial wound caused by scraping the skin against a rough surface. It injures only the outer skin layers and typically bleeds minimally. This distinguishes it from a deep wound torn open (laceration), and from a puncture wound, which is caused by a pointed object and forms a hole. Heavy bleeding is not typical for abrasions, since the damage is usually limited to surface capillaries. So the best description is that an abrasion is a superficial wound from scraping the skin. Treat by cleaning the area and covering it to protect against infection.

An abrasion is a superficial wound caused by scraping the skin against a rough surface. It injures only the outer skin layers and typically bleeds minimally. This distinguishes it from a deep wound torn open (laceration), and from a puncture wound, which is caused by a pointed object and forms a hole. Heavy bleeding is not typical for abrasions, since the damage is usually limited to surface capillaries. So the best description is that an abrasion is a superficial wound from scraping the skin. Treat by cleaning the area and covering it to protect against infection.