Wound Treatment Associate (WTA) Practice Exam

Who are at greater risk for skin tears due to skin structure?

1. Teenagers and adults

2. Newborns and elderly

3. Middle-aged individuals

4. Healthy individuals

The correct answer is: Newborns and elderly

Newborns and the elderly are at greater risk for skin tears primarily due to inherent differences in their skin structure and maturity. In newborns, the skin is still developing and has a fragile and thinner epidermal layer relative to the underlying dermis, making it more susceptible to injury. The skin of newborns lacks the resilience found in older children and adults, so any friction or shear forces can easily result in tears. Similarly, elderly individuals experience significant changes in skin structure as part of the aging process. Their skin typically becomes thinner, less elastic, and drier due to decreased collagen and elastin production, as well as reduced moisture retention. These factors contribute to the skin’s fragility, increasing the likelihood of skin tears, especially when subjected to minor trauma or friction. In contrast, teenagers and adults generally have more resilient skin with thicker layers, which provides better protection against tears. Middle-aged individuals may experience some effects of aging, but they usually do not face the same level of vulnerability to skin tears as newborns and the elderly. Healthy individuals, regardless of age, are not exempt from risk but typically have skin that is structurally more robust, which reduces their overall likelihood of experiencing skin tears compared to the specified groups.