In Stage 4 pressure injuries, what is typically exposed?

In Stage 4 pressure injuries, the defining characteristic is the exposure of underlying structures, which can include bone, muscle, or tendon. At this stage, the damage is extensive and involves a full thickness loss of skin with necrosis of surrounding tissue. This level of injury is often serious, as it not only affects the skin but also penetrates deeper into the tissues of the body.

This differentiation is crucial as it highlights the severity of the pressure injury, which requires immediate and often intensive medical management. Understanding the features of Stage 4 injuries allows healthcare providers to assess the extent of tissue damage effectively and implement appropriate treatment plans to promote healing and prevent further complications, such as infections. The other options suggest lesser degrees of tissue involvement, which do not accurately reflect the characteristics of a Stage 4 pressure injury.