Question

Which of the following BEST describes an evisceration?

A. Epidermis that is scraped away by a rough surface
B. Flap of skin that is partially or completely torn away from the underlying tissue
C. Open wound of the abdomen from which organs protrude
D. Accumulation of blood beneath the skin, resulting in swelling

Answer 1

Evisceration describes an open abdominal wound with organ protrusion, involving damage through the epidermis, dermis, and deeper layers requiring immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

An evisceration best describes an open wound of the abdomen from which organs protrude (option C). This is a serious injury that occurs when the epidermal and deeper layers of skin, along with underlying muscle and tissue, are breached to the extent that internal organs, usually those within the abdominal cavity, come into view or spill out of the wound. Eviscerations are a medical emergency and require immediate professional medical intervention to prevent further harm and to facilitate healing.

To understand the severity of an evisceration, it's crucial to grasp the skin's structure. The epidermis is the outermost tissue layer of the skin, and it's composed mainly of epithelial cells, acting as an important barrier against water loss and pathogenic invasion. Beneath it lies the much thicker dermis, which comprises blood vessels, hair follicles, and glands. Further down is the hypodermis or subcutaneous tissue, a fatty layer containing larger blood vessels and nerves. An evisceration indicates a breach through these protective layers.