New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What term describes an open wound that is missing a layer of skin?

1. Lesion

2. Incision

3. Ulcer

4. Scar

The correct answer is: Ulcer

The term that describes an open wound that is missing a layer of skin is referred to as an ulcer. An ulcer is characterized by the loss of tissue integrity, resulting in an open sore or wound that can extend into deeper layers. It often arises from various causes, including pressure, poor circulation, or infection. Understanding this term is crucial in esthetics, as it helps differentiate between various types of skin damage, which can inform treatment choices and client care strategies. Lesions generally represent any abnormal change in the skin but do not specifically refer to wounds without skin layers. An incision refers to a clean surgical cut made intentionally with a sharp instrument, rather than a wound caused by other factors. A scar is a mark left after a wound has healed, indicating that the skin has since closed and healed over. Therefore, the identification of an ulcer is essential for effectively addressing and managing skin conditions in esthetic practice.