Final answer:
The first sign of skin breakdown that a CPCT should recognize is redness, which is a cardinal sign of the body's inflammatory response to protect and heal the affected area.
Step-by-step explanation:
When observing a patient's skin integrity, a Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) should recognize that the first sign of breakdown is redness. This initial sign is part of the body's inflammatory response, which aims to protect the area from infection and initiates the healing process. Redness is caused by the dilation of blood vessels as part of this inflammatory response, leading to increased blood flow to the affected area. Other cardinal signs of inflammation include swelling, pain, and warmth. Thus, it's important for a CPCT to monitor redness, swelling, and pain after a skin injury to ensure an effective healing process and prevent complications like infection.