In the context of trauma assessments, what does 'contusion' mean?

In trauma assessments, the term 'contusion' refers specifically to a bruise. This occurs when small blood vessels are damaged, leading to bleeding under the skin without breaking the skin's surface. The impact or trauma can cause localized swelling and discoloration as the area heals. Understanding this term is crucial for emergency responders as they evaluate injuries. Recognizing a contusion helps differentiate between different types of injuries, enabling more accurate assessments and appropriate treatments. While other options like an open wound, a fracture, and a sprain refer to different injury types, they do not accurately describe the specific characteristics associated with a contusion.