Which statement correctly contrasts Stage 1 and Stage 2 pressure injuries?

• A. Stage 1: non-blanchable redness of intact skin; Stage 2: partial-thickness skin loss with exposed dermis.
• B. Stage 1: partial-thickness skin loss; Stage 2: full-thickness skin loss.
• C. Stage 1: erythema that blanches; Stage 2: partial-thickness skin loss.
• D. Stage 1: non-blanchable redness of intact skin; Stage 2: full-thickness skin loss.

Answer: (D)

Understanding how pressure injuries are staged by depth is key. Stage 1 shows non-blanchable redness of intact skin—so the surface isn’t broken, but redness does not fade when you press on it. Stage 2 involves partial-thickness skin loss, meaning the injury goes through the epidermis and maybe into the dermis, presenting as a shallow open ulcer with a pink or red wound bed or even a blister.

So the correct contrast pairs the Stage 1 description with non-blanchable redness on intact skin and the Stage 2 description with partial-thickness skin loss. The other phrases describe blanchable erythema, or misstate Stage 2 as full-thickness (which would be a more advanced stage).