Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is the meaning of envelopment related to support surfaces?

1. Extent to which support surface conforms to the patient

2. Duration of patient contact with the surface

3. Type of materials used in the support surface

4. Pressure levels experienced by the patient

The correct answer is: Extent to which support surface conforms to the patient

Envelopment refers to the degree to which a support surface, such as a mattress or cushion, conforms to the shape of the patient’s body. This is a critical aspect of effective support surfaces, as it directly influences the distribution of pressure over the skin, helping to prevent pressure injuries. When a surface envelops the body well, it can reduce localized pressure points by distributing weight more evenly across the area. This conformity is vital for providing comfort and promoting circulation, which ultimately aids in the prevention of skin breakdown. The other options, while related to the characteristics of support surfaces, do not specifically define envelopment. The duration of patient contact reflects time spent on the surface, but it does not capture how well the surface adapts to the patient’s form. The type of materials used can affect comfort and support, but it is not synonymous with envelopment. Finally, pressure levels are important for understanding the dynamics of pressure injuries, but they are a consequence of the envelopment rather than the definition itself.