Other Wounds Types and Skin Injuries

Skin Tears- are traumatic skin injuries that result from external friction and/or shearing due to the separation of the epidermis and dermis skin layers. Skin tears are mostly present on the hands, and upper extremities (London Health Sciences Center, 2009).

Venous Ulcers- are shallow dark red or purple wounds on the lower legs that develops when the veins of the lower legs fail to return blood back toward the heart (Kita, 2009).

Arterial Ulcers- are caused by decreased perfusion to the lower extremities. Arterial ulcers are mostly found on the toes, outer ankle, or where there is pressure as a result of walking or footwear (Boertje, 2010).

Diabetic Ulcers- are ulcers that may occur as a direct result of having diabetes mellitus. Diabetic foot lesions are the cause of more hospitalizations than any other complication associated with diabetes mellitus (Rowe, 2011).

Perineal Dermatitis- is inflammation of the skin around the perineal area, upper thigh, and buttocks that is mostly associated with urinary incontinence (Diver, 2007).


References:

Boertje, J. (2009). Arterial ulcers and wound care: Symptoms, causes, treatments, and risks. Retrieved from http://www.woundsource.com/article/arterial-ulcers-and-wound-care-symptoms-causes-treatments-and-risks

Diver, D.S. (2007). Perineal dermatitis in critical care patients. Retrieved from http://ccn.aacnjournals.org/contents/27/4/42./full

Kita, N. (2009). Venous ulcer. Retrieved from http://plasticsurgery.about.com/od/glossary/g/venous_ulcer.htm

London Health Sciences Center. (2009). Skin tear. Retrieved from http://lhsc.on.ca/Health_Professionals/Wound_Care/skintear.htm

Rowe, V.L. (2011). Diabetic ulcers. Retrieved from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/460282-overview