Corrections Officer State Certification (SOCE) Practice Exam

Which term describes a bluish discoloration of the skin due to poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation?

1. Infusion

2. Cyanosis

3. Oedema

4. Anemia

The correct answer is: Cyanosis

The term that describes a bluish discoloration of the skin resulting from poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation is cyanosis. This condition occurs when there is an insufficient amount of oxygen in the blood, causing the skin and mucous membranes to take on a blue tint. Cyanosis can manifest in various areas of the body, particularly around the lips, face, and extremities. It is often an indication of underlying medical issues such as respiratory or cardiovascular problems, where the body is not getting an adequate supply of oxygen. The other terms in the question refer to different conditions: infusion pertains to the introduction of a substance into the body, usually through an intravenous line; edema refers to swelling caused by the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues; and anemia is characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to a reduced capacity of the blood to carry oxygen, but it does not specifically result in the bluish discoloration associated with cyanosis.