How can a nurse help prevent pressure ulcers?

• A. Encourage patients to stay in bed
• B. Regularly reposition patients and maintain skin hygiene
• C. Limit fluid intake to reduce urine output
• D. Use special creams only when needed

Answer: (B)

Regularly repositioning patients and maintaining skin hygiene are key strategies in preventing pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, develop from prolonged pressure on the skin, particularly over bony areas, which can restrict blood flow and lead to tissue damage.

By repositioning patients, nurses can alleviate pressure on susceptible areas, promoting better circulation and reducing the risk of skin breakdown. This is especially important for individuals who are immobile or spend a significant amount of time in bed or in a wheelchair. Additionally, maintaining skin hygiene helps to keep the skin clean and dry, which further reduces the risk for development of ulcers, as moisture from sweat or incontinence can contribute to skin integrity issues.

Using a proactive approach of both repositioning and proper skin care is integral to enhancing patient safety and comfort, making this method the correct answer for preventing pressure ulcers.