The skin must be broken for the assessor to code wound care. Broken skin refers to any condition where the skin is not intact which increases the risk of infection. Even if a scab has developed, the skin would be considered broken since the wound is still present underneath the scab. There are a variety of causes for broken skin such as a severe rash, injury, undergoing medical treatment/surgery, etc.
Application of ointments/creams to unbroken skin or rashes would not qualify as wound care. For example, applying lotion to dry skin would not be coded as wound care. Prescription ointment/creams used for treating unbroken skin should also be coded in section M1 if used in the last 3 days or on a regular maintenance schedule.