A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgery.

Exhibit 1

Medical History

0800:

Client has a history of malnutrition, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes mellitus.

Mini Nutritional Assessment screening tool score of 7 points (0 to 14 points)

The nurse is reviewing the client's medical record. Which of the following findings places the client at risk for delayed wound healing? Select all that apply

A. Uses one pair of gloves for dressing removal and irrigation:

It is essential to change gloves between different steps of wound care to prevent cross-contamination and infection. Using the same pair of gloves for dressing removal and irrigation increases the risk of introducing pathogens into the wound, which can lead to infection.

B. Uses a syringe with a catheter for wound irrigation.

Using a syringe with a catheter for wound irrigation allows for controlled and precise delivery of the irrigation solution to the wound site. It helps ensure that the wound is thoroughly cleansed without causing excessive pressure or trauma to the surrounding tissue.

C. Administers an analgesic medication 5 minutes before starting irrigation:

While administering analgesic medication may help alleviate the client's pain during wound irrigation, it is not directly related to the procedural aspect of wound irrigation. Pain management is an essential component of wound care, but it does not demonstrate an understanding of the specific procedure of wound irrigation.

D. Refrigerates the solution before irrigation:

Refrigerating the irrigation solution is not necessary and may cause discomfort to the client when cold solution is used for wound irrigation. Wound irrigation solutions are typically used at room temperature to avoid temperature-related discomfort and to maintain the integrity of the solution.

A. Reposition the client every 4 hours:

While repositioning is essential for preventing pressure injuries, the recommended frequency for repositioning depends on the individual client's condition, risk factors, and facility protocols. Four-hour intervals may not be sufficient for some clients, especially those at higher risk, and more frequent repositioning may be necessary.

B. Raise the head of the client's bed to a 60° angle:

Raising the head of the bed to a 60° angle may help with positioning for comfort and respiratory support but does not directly address the prevention of pressure injuries. In fact, maintaining the head of the bed elevated at such a high angle for prolonged periods could potentially increase pressure on the sacrum and increase the risk of pressure injuries in other areas.

C. Ensure the client's heels are not touching the mattress.

Keeping the client's heels off the mattress helps to alleviate pressure on this vulnerable area, reducing the risk of pressure injuries. Pressure injuries commonly occur over bony prominences when pressure is exerted on the skin over an extended period, leading to tissue damage. The heels are particularly susceptible due to the limited tissue padding and continuous pressure when lying in bed. Elevating the heels with appropriate support, such as foam pads or pillows, helps to redistribute pressure and minimize the risk of pressure injuries.

D. Massage the client's bony prominences:

Massaging bony prominences is contraindicated for clients at risk of pressure injuries as it can increase friction and shear forces on the skin, leading to tissue damage. Massage should be avoided over areas prone to pressure injuries to prevent further trauma to the skin.