A nurse working on an orthopedic unit is caring for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse identify as being at greatest risk for skin breakdown?
An adolescent who has a cervical fracture and is in a halo brace
A middle adult who has a fractured radius and an arm cast
An older adult who has a hip fracture and is in Buck's traction
A young adult who has a femur fracture and is in skeletal balanced suspension traction
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Although the adolescent in a halo brace has some immobility, the greatest risk factors for skin breakdown involve areas where prolonged pressure is applied, and older adults are more vulnerable due to age-related skin changes.
B. A fractured radius and arm cast do not pose a significant risk for skin breakdown because the client can still mobilize and reposition themselves, reducing prolonged pressure.
C. An older adult with a hip fracture in Buck's traction is at greatest risk for skin breakdown due to immobility, pressure from the traction setup, and the reduced skin elasticity and healing capacity that come with age.
D. While skeletal balanced suspension traction poses some risk, a young adult typically has better skin integrity and mobility than an older adult, reducing the risk for skin breakdown.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A Stage 1 pressure ulcer is characterized by intact skin with non-blanchable redness; it does not involve any tissue loss or visible subcutaneous tissue, which is present in this case.
B. A Stage 4 pressure ulcer involves full-thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, muscle, or tendon; while this wound has visible subcutaneous tissue, it does not exhibit the depth or extent associated with Stage 4.
C. A Stage 2 pressure ulcer is defined by partial-thickness skin loss involving the epidermis and possibly the dermis, presenting as a blister or abrasion. This wound shows more depth and visible subcutaneous tissue, which indicates it is deeper than a Stage 2.
D. A Stage 3 pressure ulcer involves full-thickness skin loss, with visible fat and possible slough. The presence of minimal slough and visible subcutaneous tissue in this wound aligns with the characteristics of a Stage 3 ulcer.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.