What term describes a skin wound caused by scraping?

The correct term for a skin wound caused by scraping is "abrasion." An abrasion occurs when the skin is rubbed off or scraped away, usually affecting only the outermost layers. This type of injury is common in situations like falls or when a rough surface contacts the skin. Abrasions can lead to discomfort and are often characterized by redness and bleeding, although they may not always penetrate deeply enough to cause significant bleeding.

In contrast, a laceration refers to a deep cut or tear in the skin that can involve multiple layers and may require stitches for proper healing. A contusion is a bruise caused by blunt force trauma that damages blood vessels under the skin but does not break the skin's surface. A puncture is a wound made by a sharp object that penetrates the skin, like a nail or needle, and can introduce pathogens deeper into the tissue.

Understanding these distinctions is key to recognizing and describing various types of skin injuries accurately.