A nurse is planning care for an older adult client who is at risk for developing pressure ulcers.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse use to help maintain the integrity of the client's skin?
Elevate the head of the bed no more than 45°.
Use a transfer device to lift the client up in bed.
Massage the skin over the client's bony prominences.
Apply cornstarch to keep sensitive skin areas dry.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Elevating the head of the bed helps to reduce pressure on bony prominences, especially the sacral area, and can help prevent pressure ulcers. However, the head of the bed should not be elevated more than 30 degrees to 45 degrees to maintain skin integrity.
B. Using a transfer device is important for moving the client safely, but it is not specifically related to maintaining skin integrity.
C. Massaging the skin over bony prominences is not recommended as it can increase friction and shear, which can contribute to pressure ulcer development.
D. Applying cornstarch is not typically recommended for pressure ulcer prevention. It can create a moist environment that may contribute to skin breakdown, especially in areas where moisture can become trapped.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is the correct method for identifying the client before administering medication.
Asking for the client's full name and date of birth is a standard and effective way to ensure that the right medication is given to the right person.
B. Depending solely on a family member to verify the client's identity is not considered a reliable method. While involving family members can be helpful in certain situations, the primary responsibility lies with the nurse to directly confirm the client's identity.
C. Verifying the client's room number is not a sufficient method of client identification.
Room numbers can change, and it's possible for clients to be moved, so relying on this alone is not considered safe practice.
D. Checking the client's name on the medication administration record (MAR) is an important step in medication administration, but it is not the initial method of identifying the client. It's used to confirm that the right medication is being administered to the right person after the client's identity has been established through direct interaction and confirmation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Rubbing hands and arms to dry is not the correct action for hand hygiene. After applying soap, hands should be rinsed thoroughly with water and then dried using a clean towel or air dryer.
B. Adjusting the water temperature to feel hot is not recommended for hand hygiene.
Water that is too hot can be uncomfortable and may even cause skin irritation. The water should be comfortably warm.
C. Applying 4 to 5 mL of liquid soap to the hands is the correct action. This provides an adequate amount of soap to create a good lather for effective handwashing.
D. Holding the hands higher than the elbows is not a necessary step for hand hygiene.
The focus should be on thoroughly cleaning the hands, not on the position of the hands in relation to the elbows.
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