What is an open wound?

• A. Where there is a break in the skin
• B. A closed wound
• C. A bruise
• D. A puncture

Answer: (A)

An open wound is any injury that breaks the skin, creating an opening that can bleed and allow contaminants to enter. This definition distinguishes it from a closed wound, where the skin remains intact. A bruise is a closed wound because the skin isn’t broken, with bleeding beneath the surface. A puncture involves a hole created by a pointed object and also results in a break of the skin, fitting the idea of an open wound as well. In first aid terms, open wounds require controlling bleeding, cleaning around the area, and covering with a sterile dressing to reduce infection risk.