Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What variable most heavily influences the temperature reading when measuring wound surface temperature?

1. Humidity

2. Vascularity

3. Air temperature

4. Skin pigmentation

The correct answer is: Vascularity

The variable that most heavily influences the temperature reading when measuring wound surface temperature is vascularity. Vascularity refers to the presence and condition of blood vessels in the area surrounding the wound. Adequate blood flow is crucial for maintaining normal tissue temperature, as the blood carries heat generated by metabolic activity. When there is increased vascularity, tissues can be warmer due to enhanced blood circulation, which can lead to elevated temperatures at the wound site. Conversely, reduced vascularity, which may occur due to conditions like ischemia or peripheral artery disease, can result in lower temperature readings since there is less blood flow to carry heat to the area. While factors such as humidity, air temperature, and skin pigmentation can influence overall skin temperature to some extent, they do not have as direct or significant an impact on the specific measurement of wound surface temperature as vascularity does. Therefore, understanding the role of vascularity is essential for accurately interpreting wound temperature readings in clinical practice.