Which practice helps prevent pressure ulcers in immobile residents?

Which practice helps prevent pressure ulcers in immobile residents?

• A. Reposition every two hours
• B. Avoid changing sheets
• C. Massage reddened areas
• D. Limit fluids

Answer: (D)

Regularly repositioning immobile residents relieves continuous pressure on bony areas and preserves blood flow to the skin, which is essential to prevent tissue breakdown. When someone cannot move themselves, staying in the same position compresses skin over the sacrum, heels, hips, and other prominences, cutting off blood supply and leading to ulcers. Turning or repositioning at least every two hours redistributes pressure, reduces friction and shear, and gives the skin a chance to recover. This practice should be paired with good skin care, keeping the skin clean and dry, and using cushioning or pressure-relieving devices to further protect vulnerable areas. Avoid massaging reddened areas, and don’t rely on limiting fluids as a prevention strategy—adequate hydration and nutrition support skin health and healing.

Regularly repositioning immobile residents relieves continuous pressure on bony areas and preserves blood flow to the skin, which is essential to prevent tissue breakdown. When someone cannot move themselves, staying in the same position compresses skin over the sacrum, heels, hips, and other prominences, cutting off blood supply and leading to ulcers. Turning or repositioning at least every two hours redistributes pressure, reduces friction and shear, and gives the skin a chance to recover. This practice should be paired with good skin care, keeping the skin clean and dry, and using cushioning or pressure-relieving devices to further protect vulnerable areas. Avoid massaging reddened areas, and don’t rely on limiting fluids as a prevention strategy—adequate hydration and nutrition support skin health and healing.