What term describes the elastic state of skin and tissue?

The term that describes the elastic state of skin and tissue is "turgor." Turgor specifically refers to the natural rigidity and elasticity caused by the fluid content within the cells and the extracellular matrix. It is a vital aspect of skin integrity, as proper turgor indicates that the skin is well-hydrated and capable of maintaining its shape and resilience. Turgor can be assessed by pinching the skin and observing how quickly it returns to its original position; if the skin snaps back, it indicates good turgor, while a slow return may suggest dehydration.

Other terms listed do not pertain to the elastic state of skin. For example, emollient refers to a substance that soothes or softens the skin rather than its elasticity. Granulation is a process that occurs during wound healing characterized by the formation of new tissue. Debridement is the medical removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue, which does not relate to the elastic properties of intact skin.