Your patient is a 14-year-old girl who was in a motor vehicle accident and is now comatose in the ICU. You are working with the patient's family regarding appropriate positioning for this patient. Which of the following would be most appropriate to tell them?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Patients who are unable to move independently are at higher risk for developing pressure ulcers, which can occur when the skin is subjected to prolonged pressure or friction. Therefore, it is important to position the patient appropriately to avoid skin breakdown. Option B is partially correct; patients should be repositioned frequently to prevent skin breakdown, but the frequency may vary based on the patient's specific needs. Option C is also partially correct; it is important to avoid prolonged sitting or elevation of the head of the bed to prevent respiratory complications and blood pressure changes, but the time limit may vary for each patient. Option D is not necessarily appropriate for every patient and could potentially cause harm if not properly applied.

Your Patient Is a 14-Year-Old Girl Who Was in a Motor