Age-related skin changes include a thinning epidermis and decreased subcutaneous fat and elasticity.Which skin-related actions should the perioperative nurse take with regards to the older patient?

Question

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The skin loses elasticity and subcutaneous fat and becomes more prone to shear force and pressure injury.Because of the thinness of the skin and small-vessel fragility,bruising and hemorrhaging are common.Therefore,review risk factors for intraoperative pressure ulcer development; assess potential pressure areas before anesthesia induction and positioning,noting bruises,sores,skin tears,rashes,lesions,and pressure ulcers; avoid friction and shearing forces by using a four-person lift,a lift sheet,or lifting device when transferring the patient to or from the OR bed and turning the patient to the desired surgical position; prevent wrinkling of linen under the patient or positioning devices; place electrosurgical dispersive pad in the most appropriate area while avoiding bony prominences; avoid pooling of solutions under the patient; apply tape sparingly to prevent skin injury; consider paper tape or a nonadherent dressing on fragile skin; position the patient; and evaluate for signs and symptoms of physical injury to skin and tissue.

Age-Related Skin Changes Include a Thinning Epidermis and Decreased Subcutaneous