When a portion of the skin is partially or completely torn off, it is called?

• A. Avulsion
• B. Laceration
• C. Abrasion
• D. Puncture

Answer: (A)

An avulsion is a wound where all or part of the skin (and sometimes deeper tissue) is torn away or pulled off. This describes a situation where a chunk of skin is missing or a flap is created, and it can be partial or complete. Other wound types have different shapes and depths: a laceration is a cut or tearing of the skin with jagged edges but without a large piece being removed; an abrasion is a superficial scrape that only removes the top layer of skin; a puncture is a small hole made by a pointed object, often with less surface damage but potential depth. Avulsions tend to bleed more and carry a higher risk of contamination due to the displaced tissue, so they require careful management and prompt medical attention. In first aid, focus on controlling bleeding, keeping the wound clean, covering it with a sterile dressing, and seeking care promptly, especially if the wound is large or the tissue is exposed.