Which type of wound involves a break in the skin or mucous membrane?

An open wound is characterized by a break in the skin or mucous membrane, which exposes the underlying tissues and may allow for the entry of pathogens. This type of wound can result from various causes, including cuts, lacerations, and abrasions. The presence of an open area significantly increases the risk of infection due to potential contamination from environmental sources.

In contrast, a closed wound does not involve a break in the skin, meaning the surface remains intact, even though there may be damage to the underlying tissues, such as in the case of hematomas. A contusion, or bruise, is a specific type of closed wound resulting from blunt force trauma that causes damage to blood vessels without breaking the skin. Burns, on the other hand, are injuries to the skin caused by thermal, chemical, or electrical sources, but they do not necessarily require a break in the skin unless they are severe enough to cause skin loss.

Thus, the definition of an open wound clearly connects it to injuries that breach the skin or mucous membrane, making it the correct and relevant choice in this context.