Moist heat has the physiological effect of:

Choice A rationale:

Numbing the area treated is not a physiological effect of moist heat. Moist heat primarily works by increasing blood flow to the treated area.

Choice B rationale:

Dilating the blood vessels is the correct answer. Moist heat therapy works by increasing the temperature of the skin/soft tissue, which leads to vasodilation and increased blood flow to the treated area.

Choice C rationale:

Drawing fluid to the site of application is not a physiological effect of moist heat. Moist heat primarily works by increasing blood flow to the treated area.

Choice D rationale:

Constricting the blood vessels is not a physiological effect of moist heat. Moist heat primarily works by increasing blood flow to the treated area through vasodilation.

E.

Choice A rationale:

A BMI of 20 is within the normal range (18.5-24.9), so it does not increase the risk of a pressure injury.

Choice B rationale:

Peripheral neuropathy can lead to a loss of sensation, which increases the risk of a pressure injury as the individual may not feel discomfort or recognize the need to reposition.

Choice C rationale:

Immobility is a major risk factor for pressure injuries as it increases pressure on certain areas of the body, reducing blood flow and leading to tissue damage.

Choice D rationale:

Hypoperfusion, or reduced blood flow, can lead to tissue hypoxia and increase the risk of pressure injuries.

Choice E rationale:

A prealbumin level of 16 mg/dL is at the lower end of the normal range (15-36 mg/dL)2. Low prealbumin levels can indicate poor nutritional status, which is a risk factor for pressure injuries.