Final answer:
The best indication of a successful patient turning schedule to prevent pressure ulcers is the absence of skin breakdown. Documentation of turning and the patient's nutrition are important but do not directly reflect effectiveness in preventing ulcers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The evaluation of a patient's turning schedule in preventing the formation of pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, would be indicated by the absence of skin breakdown. When patients are immobile, they are at risk for bedsores, which are serious conditions that can lead to fatal infections if left untreated. A successful turning schedule typically involves repositioning a patient every few hours to alleviate pressure on bony parts of the body that are prone to ulcer formation.
The best indication of an effective turning schedule is the absence of skin breakdown, rather than staff documentation of turns or the patient's nutritional intake. While it is important for the staff to document the patient's turns every 2 hours and for the patient to have proper nutrition, the absence of skin breakdown is a direct reflection of a turning schedule's effectiveness in preventing bedsores. Even if redness is noted on the heels, which is a common pressure point, if there is no breakdown of the skin, it suggests that the turning schedule could be effective. However, any redness should be monitored closely as it may be an early sign of pressure ulcer formation.