What is the appropriate nursing action for a comatose client with a stage II decubitus ulcer?

What is the appropriate nursing action for a comatose client with a stage II decubitus ulcer?

• A. Provide regular skin checks
• B. Change the dressing frequently
• C. Provide an alternating pressure mattress
• D. Increase fluid intake via IV

Answer: (C)

In the case of a comatose client with a stage II decubitus ulcer, an appropriate nursing action would be to provide an alternating pressure mattress. This type of mattress is designed to help redistribute pressure away from bony prominences, which is critical for preventing further skin breakdown and aiding in the healing process of existing ulcers. For a comatose patient who may not be able to shift positions or communicate discomfort, maintaining pressure relief is essential. An alternating pressure mattress works by automatically inflating and deflating sections of the mattress at regular intervals, thus alleviating constant pressure on any one area of the body. This intervention is particularly vital in the management of stage II pressure ulcers, as it can help facilitate healing and improve overall skin integrity. While regular skin checks, changing dressings frequently, and increasing fluid intake are all important components of nursing care, they do not directly address the critical need for pressure relief in this scenario, making the use of an alternating pressure mattress the most appropriate and effective choice.

In the case of a comatose client with a stage II decubitus ulcer, an appropriate nursing action would be to provide an alternating pressure mattress. This type of mattress is designed to help redistribute pressure away from bony prominences, which is critical for preventing further skin breakdown and aiding in the healing process of existing ulcers.

For a comatose patient who may not be able to shift positions or communicate discomfort, maintaining pressure relief is essential. An alternating pressure mattress works by automatically inflating and deflating sections of the mattress at regular intervals, thus alleviating constant pressure on any one area of the body. This intervention is particularly vital in the management of stage II pressure ulcers, as it can help facilitate healing and improve overall skin integrity.

While regular skin checks, changing dressings frequently, and increasing fluid intake are all important components of nursing care, they do not directly address the critical need for pressure relief in this scenario, making the use of an alternating pressure mattress the most appropriate and effective choice.