Final answer:
To prevent pressure ulcers, patients should be turned every two hours as part of the care plan. This practice helps reduce pressure on bony areas at risk for ulceration due to impaired blood flow and tissue death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Preventing Pressure Ulcer Development
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsore or decubitis ulcers, primarily affect individuals who are immobilized and are a significant concern in health care settings. To prevent the development of pressure ulcers, a vital intervention that should be included in a plan of care is implementing a turning schedule for the patient. The recommended practice is to turn patients every two hours, which helps alleviate the unrelieved pressure on bony areas of the body that are prone to ulceration due to reduced blood flow and subsequent tissue necrosis. While positioning the patients, it is also crucial to ensure that they are not resting directly on their heels or elbows by using protective cushioning supports if necessary. Although ring cushions for heels and elbows (option C) might be helpful, they are not primarily recommended as they could decrease blood flow to the areas they are supposed to protect. Option D, which suggests not turning patients and relying solely on pressure-relieving support surfaces, can be a supplementary measure but should not replace regular turning and repositioning.
Thus, the correct intervention to prevent pressure ulcer development is B) Implement a turning schedule every two hours.