Which hallmark is associated with Stage I pressure ulcer?

• A. Partial-thickness skin loss
• B. Purulent drainage from wound
• C. Non-blanchable erythema of intact skin
• D. Full-thickness tissue loss with exposure of bone

Answer: (C)

Stage I pressure ulcers show redness that does not fade when you apply gentle pressure, with the skin still intact. This non-blanchable erythema signals early tissue damage without open wounds. The idea is that pressing on the area should make redness lighter if the capillaries are still able to blanch; since it doesn’t, deeper tissue irritation is present even though the surface skin hasn’t broken. This often occurs over a bony prominence and can be harder to spot in darker skin tones, so a careful check for persistent redness, warmth, or firmness is important.

Partial-thickness skin loss describes a shallow break in the skin and corresponds to a later stage. Purulent drainage points to infection rather than an early, non-blanching redness. Full-thickness tissue loss with exposure of bone indicates a more severe stage with deeper destruction.