Which assessment finding indicates a client is at risk for problems associated with impaired skin integrity?

Which assessment finding indicates a client is at risk for problems associated with impaired skin integrity?

• A. Smooth nail texture.
• B. Capillary refill 5 seconds.
• C. Scattered macula on the face.
• D. Absence of skin tenting.

Answer: (B)

Prolonged capillary refill indicates poor peripheral perfusion, which jeopardizes skin integrity because adequate blood flow is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients needed for skin health and wound healing. A capillary refill time of five seconds is markedly slow and signals dehydration or circulatory compromise, both of which can lead to skin breakdown or delayed healing. Other findings don’t point to the same risk. Smooth nail texture isn’t a reliable signal of skin integrity problems. A scattered macula on the face may reflect a benign skin finding or a dermatologic condition but doesn’t specifically indicate impaired skin integrity. Absence of skin tenting means the skin has good turgor and elasticity, not a risk factor for skin breakdown.

Prolonged capillary refill indicates poor peripheral perfusion, which jeopardizes skin integrity because adequate blood flow is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients needed for skin health and wound healing. A capillary refill time of five seconds is markedly slow and signals dehydration or circulatory compromise, both of which can lead to skin breakdown or delayed healing.

Other findings don’t point to the same risk. Smooth nail texture isn’t a reliable signal of skin integrity problems. A scattered macula on the face may reflect a benign skin finding or a dermatologic condition but doesn’t specifically indicate impaired skin integrity. Absence of skin tenting means the skin has good turgor and elasticity, not a risk factor for skin breakdown.