Question

The nurse is instructing the nursing assistant to prevent pressure ulcers in a frail older patient; the nursing assistant understands the instruction when she agrees to:

A. bathe and dry the skin vigorously to stimulate circulation.
B. limit intake of fluid and offer frequent snacks.
C. turn the patient at least every 2 hours.
D. keep the head of the bed elevated 30 degrees.

Answer 1

The nursing assistant demonstrates understanding by agreeing to turn the patient every two hours (option C), which is a standard practice to prevent pressure ulcers by redistributing pressure on susceptible parts of the body.

Step-by-step explanation:

Instructing the nursing assistant to prevent pressure ulcers in a frail older patient, the correct understanding of the instruction is indicated when she agrees to turn the patient at least every 2 hours. This practice aids in eliminating pressure points that contribute to the development of bedsores or decubitis ulcers, by redistributing the pressure and improving blood flow to the bony areas that are susceptible to necrosis.



It is essential to avoid vigorous bathing and drying as it can cause damage to fragile skin, offer adequate fluid intake instead of limiting it, and avoid keeping the head of the bed elevated unless required for other medical reasons, as excessive elevation is not directly preventative for pressure ulcers.