24 Questions
What is the recommended frequency for changing a person's position to prevent pressure ulcers?
Every 2 hours
What is a major risk factor for pressure ulcer development?
Fragile, dry skin
What is an early sign of pressure ulcer development?
Redness of the skin
What is the purpose of using pressure-reducing devices?
To relieve pressure and protect skin
Why is it important to avoid leaving a person in Fowler's position for an extended period?
To prevent friction and shearing injuries
What is the recommended height for elevating the head of the bed?
30 degrees
Why is it important to remove hair pins or barrettes when a person's head is resting on a pillow?
To prevent pressure ulcers
What is the purpose of making a tight, neat, wrinkle-free bed?
To prevent friction and shearing injuries
What is the primary reason for repositioning individuals in a health care setting?
To reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers
What is the benefit of using a sequence of positions in repositioning?
To ensure no single area is under pressure for too long
What is the primary goal of repositioning in the care plan?
To prevent pressure ulcers
What is the consequence of not repositioning individuals regularly?
Increased risk of developing pressure ulcers
What is the benefit of using basic positions in the health care setting?
To facilitate easier procedures and activities
What is the purpose of using a specific schedule for repositioning?
To accommodate individualized needs
What is the characteristic of the supine position?
The bed is flat
What is the primary goal of repositioning in relation to pressure ulcers?
To reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers
What is the primary reason for repositioning a person to prevent pressure ulcers?
To improve circulation
Which of the following is not a risk factor for pressure ulcers?
Good circulation
What is the recommended frequency for checking people with incontinence to prevent pressure ulcers?
Every 2 hours
What type of clothing can help prevent pressure ulcers?
Moisture-absorbing fabrics
What is the purpose of elevating a person's arms and legs to prevent pressure ulcers?
To improve circulation
Why is it essential to encourage a person to eat a well-balanced diet to prevent pressure ulcers?
To promote skin health
What is the primary purpose of skin-to-skin contact in pressure ulcer prevention?
To reduce pressure
What is the recommended action to take when observing skin changes in a person?
Report the changes to the nurse
Study Notes
Risk Factors for Pressure Ulcer Development
- Immobility is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
- Advanced age is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
- Fragile, dry skin is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
- Moisture (e.g. skin-to-skin contact or contact with soiled linens) is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
- Poor nutrition is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
- Poor hydration is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
- Poor circulation (e.g. due to cardiovascular disease) is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
- Poor oxygenation (e.g. due to respiratory disease) is a risk factor for pressure ulcer development
Protecting the Person's Skin
- To prevent direct pressure, change the person's position according to the care plan and at least every 2 hours
- Observe and report immediately any reddened, pale, or darkened areas of the skin
- Use pressure-reducing devices (e.g. pressure-reducing mattress pads, heel and elbow protectors) to relieve pressure and protect skin
- To prevent friction and shearing injuries, get help when moving the person, lift the person's body all the way off the mattress, and avoid leaving the person in Fowler's position
- To prevent skin-to-skin contact, check for skin changes under skin folds, position the person to allow air circulation around the arms and legs, and keep skin, clothing, and linens clean and dry
- To prevent moisture damage, wash, rinse, and dry the person's skin thoroughly, especially in areas where skin meets skin
Assisting with Positioning and Transferring
- Repositioning the person often helps to prevent complications such as contractures and pressure ulcers
- Basic positions used in the health care setting include the supine position (bed is flat)
- An individualized schedule for repositioning is part of the person's care plan to reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers
Learn about the various risk factors that contribute to pressure ulcer development, including immobility, advanced age, and poor nutrition. Identify the factors that increase the likelihood of pressure ulcer development.
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