What is a sign of skin abrasion?

A sign of skin abrasion is an open wound, as this type of injury involves the superficial layers of the skin being scraped away, often exposing the underlying tissues. Abrasions usually occur due to friction against a rough surface and may present with varying degrees of redness, pain, and oozing if the wound is deeper. This characteristic of being an open wound is fundamental in recognizing abrasions, as it distinguishes them from other skin conditions or injuries, such as bruises or intact skin, which possess the complete outer barrier of the epidermis.

In contrast, intact skin surfaces, smooth textures, and normal coloration would not indicate an abrasion. Each of these options reflects the absence of damage or injury to the skin, which is the opposite of what an abrasion entails. Recognizing the presence of open wounds is crucial in assessing injuries in an emergency setting.