Final answer:
Draw sheets are used to prevent skin damage caused by shearing, particularly for immobilized individuals. They keep the bed covers from pushing down on residents' feet, reducing the risk of shearing and preventing skin damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Draw sheets are used to prevent skin damage caused by shearing. Shearing occurs when the skin moves in one direction while the underlying bone moves in the opposite direction, causing damage to the skin and its underlying tissues. By using draw sheets, the bed covers can be kept from pushing down on residents' feet, reducing the risk of shearing and preventing skin damage. This is especially important for individuals who are immobile or spend a lot of time in bed, such as elderly patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities.