Question

Of these factors, the patient's poor nutrition carries the highest risk for the patient developing a pressure ulcer. The better the nutrition, the lower the risk. Moist, not dry, skin puts a patient at a greater risk for developing a pressure ulcer. Although frequent, rather than occasional, activity is ideal for reducing the risk for developing a pressure ulcer, the more immobile the patient is, the greater the chance of pressure ulcer development. Slightly limited sensory perception puts a patient at less of a risk than does very limited or completely limited sensory perception.

a) Poor nutrition
b) Moist skin
c) Immobility
d) Sensory perception

Answer 1

Pressure ulcers, influenced by factors like nutrition, skin moisture, immobility, and sensory perception, can lead to serious complications but are preventable through proper care such as regular repositioning, adequate nutrition, and skin care.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, can result from many factors including poor nutrition, moist skin, immobility, and sensory perception. They occur due to long-term, unrelieved pressure on bony areas of the body which reduces blood flow and can lead to tissue necrosis. Good nutrition is critical in supporting skin health and aiding in the prevention and healing of pressure ulcers. Excessive moisture of the skin increases the risk by weakening the skin and making it more susceptible to injury. Immobility is a significant risk factor because it leads to unrelieved pressure on certain areas of the skin, therefore regular movement or repositioning is essential for prevention. Sensory perception allows individuals to feel the discomfort that signals the need to change position; those with limited perception are at a higher risk for developing pressure ulcers because they might not respond to the discomfort caused by unrelieved pressure.

Pressure ulcers are preventable when proper care and attention to pressure points are combined with maintaining skin integrity and overall patient health. Facilities often implement repositioning schedules to distribute pressure and prevent ulcers. Moreover, it is important to address factors of risk such as ensuring adequate nutrition and managing skin moisture. Early detection and treatment are essential in preventing the progression of bedsores, which can lead to severe complications if they become infected.