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 D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Requesting an indwelling urinary catheter is not appropriate for preventing skin breakdown; catheters can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and skin irritation.
B. Cleaning the skin and perineum with hot water can cause irritation and dryness. Instead, using mild soap and warm water is recommended for cleaning.
C. Checking the client's skin every 8 hours may not be frequent enough for a client with incontinence, as more frequent assessments are needed to catch signs of breakdown early.
D. Applying a moisture barrier ointment to the skin protects it from moisture and irritants, helping to prevent skin breakdown in clients with urinary incontinence. This action is proactive and aligns with best practices for skin care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Adequate nutrition actually promotes wound healing. Poor nutrition, especially a lack of protein and vitamins, delays healing and increases the risk of infection.
B. Chronic wounds heal better in a moist environment rather than a dry one. Moist wound healing promotes cell migration and prevents scab formation, improving healing.
C. Fat tissue does not heal more rapidly. In fact, it heals more slowly due to decreased vascularization, which impairs oxygen delivery and nutrient supply to the tissue.
D. Long-term steroid use diminishes the body’s inflammatory response, reducing the body's ability to initiate the healing process. This delay in inflammation can lead to slower wound healing and a higher risk of infection.