Question

A PCT is caring for a patient who is at risk for skin breakdown. Which of the following actions should the PCT take to prevent this breakdown?

A) Encourage the patient to remain immobile
B) Keep the skin clean and dry
C) Avoid repositioning the patient
D) Apply tight dressings to the at-risk areas

Answer 1

To prevent skin breakdown, the PCT should keep the patient's skin clean and dry, regularly reposition the patient, use topical moisturizers, and ensure that dressings are not applied too tightly.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Patient Care Technician (PCT) should take action to prevent skin breakdown in a patient at risk. The correct action from the options provided is to keep the skin clean and dry. This helps to prevent moisture from leading to skin breakdown. In addition to cleanliness, it is also essential to regularly reposition the patient to eliminate pressure points, which can contribute to skin breakdown. Applying tight dressings is not recommended as it may cause further damage by restricting blood flow. Additionally, maintaining proper skin moisture with topical moisturizers can be beneficial as can be treating areas of dry skin to prevent breakdown. Encouraging immobility would be counterproductive as movement is necessary to alleviate pressure points and improve circulation.