Which of the following best describes the effect of a contusion?

• A. It causes immediate swelling
• B. It may cause discoloration and pain
• C. It disrupts skin integrity
• D. It heals instantly

Answer: (B)

A contusion, commonly known as a bruise, is characterized by localized bleeding underneath the skin, typically resulting from a direct impact or trauma. This injury usually leads to pain and can cause discoloration due to the pooling of blood in the tissue below the skin. The colors of a bruise can change over time, shifting from red to purple, and eventually yellow or green as it heals, which is a direct manifestation of the blood break down.

While it can indeed cause immediate swelling, which is often associated with many types of injuries, the defining features of a contusion are the discoloration and pain. Disrupting skin integrity, such as would occur in cuts or abrasions, is not a characteristic of a contusion, as the skin itself remains intact. Additionally, healing from a contusion is not instant; it typically takes days to weeks depending on the severity of the injury. Therefore, recognizing that a contusion causes discoloration and pain encompasses its primary effects effectively.