What finding should the nurse expect for a client with a stage II pressure ulcer?

For a client with a stage II pressure ulcer, the expected finding includes partial thickness loss of the dermis. This stage is characterized by a shallow, open sore with a red or pink wound bed, which can appear as a blister or a shallow crater. The partial thickness loss means that the ulcer has extended through the epidermis and into the dermis but has not penetrated through to the deeper layers, which differentiates it from stage III or IV pressure ulcers.

Understanding the characteristics of pressure ulcers is crucial for proper assessment and care. The classification system helps healthcare providers identify the severity of the ulcer and plan appropriate interventions. In stage II, the skin is not intact, nor is there full thickness tissue loss or necrotic tissue present, which would indicate a more advanced stage of the ulcer. This knowledge is essential in preventing further deterioration and promoting healing for patients with pressure ulcers.