A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is at risk for skin breakdown. Which of the following interventions should the nurse use to help maintain the integrity of the client's skin?
Apply cornstarch to keep the skin dry.
Provide the client with a diet high in protein.
Massage bony prominences to promote circulation.
Reposition the client every 3 hr.
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. Applying cornstarch can absorb moisture; however, it may not be the most effective method to maintain skin integrity and can cause friction when applying.
B. A diet high in protein is essential for skin health and repair, as it supports tissue regeneration and helps prevent skin breakdown in vulnerable clients.
C. Massaging bony prominences is not recommended, as it may cause further tissue damage or disrupt circulation. Instead, padding and reducing pressure on these areas is more beneficial.
D. Repositioning the client every 3 hours may not be frequent enough for someone at high risk for skin breakdown; generally, repositioning should occur at least every 2 hours to alleviate pressure.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A wet-to-dry dressing is typically used for debridement and is not appropriate for a shallow pressure ulcer without necrotic tissue, as it can damage healthy tissue during dressing changes.
B. Leaving the area without a dressing is not advisable as it exposes the wound to contaminants and increases the risk of infection; a dressing should be used to protect the area.
C. A hydrocolloid dressing is ideal for shallow partial-thickness wounds as it provides a moist environment, promotes healing, and helps to cushion the area while maintaining a barrier against bacteria.
D. Alginate dressings are primarily used for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate and would not be suitable in this case due to the lack of drainage.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Placing the client supine with knees bent helps reduce abdominal pressure, but it is not the first action. Protecting the exposed organs from infection or drying out takes priority.
B. Assessing for manifestations of shock is important, but the immediate concern is to prevent further injury or infection to the exposed tissues.
C. The priority action when a wound eviscerates is to cover the area with a sterile dressing moistened with 0.9% sodium chloride solution to keep the organs moist and prevent infection until surgical repair can be done.
D. Raising the head of the bed slightly may help reduce pressure, but it is not the most immediate action compared to covering the exposed organs to prevent drying or infection.