Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Which factor does NOT contribute to the tissue tolerance leading to pressure injuries?

1. Hypotension

2. Muscle strength

3. Hyperthermia

4. Stress

The correct answer is: Muscle strength

Muscle strength does not directly contribute to tissue tolerance leading to pressure injuries. Tissue tolerance refers to the ability of the skin and underlying structures to withstand pressure, shear, and other external forces without sustaining damage. Factors that influence tissue tolerance typically include the condition of the skin, circulation, and overall physical health. Hypotension, for instance, can reduce blood flow to tissues, impairing their ability to receive adequate nutrients and oxygen, which compromises tissue health and increases the risk of pressure injuries. Hyperthermia can also negatively affect skin integrity and increase the risk of damage due to changes in blood flow and skin moisture levels. Stress may lead to physiological changes, such as increased muscle tension or altered blood flow, which can also have an impact on skin integrity and healing. While muscle strength is important for overall mobility and can influence a patient's ability to reposition themselves, it does not play a direct role in the tissue's inherent tolerance to external pressure. Therefore, among the options provided, muscle strength is the factor that does not contribute to tissue tolerance concerning the development of pressure injuries.