Pressure Injury Prevention Strategies

Inspect skin at beginning of each shift and document findings. More frequent (every 2 hr) assessments are required for debilitated Pts.
Effectively manage urine and fecal incontinence.
Clean skin promptly with mild, nonirritating, nondrying cleaning solution, and avoid friction during cleaning.
Use topical moisture barriers and moisture-absorbing pads if incontinent.
Position Pts to alleviate pressure and shearing forces.
Reposition Pts every 2 hr while in bed and every hour while in chair.
Teach Pt to shift weight every 15 min while in chair.
Use appropriate positioning devices and foam padding.
Do not use donut-shaped devices.
Avoid positioning Pts directly on trochanters or directly on wound.
Maintain lowest head elevation position possible to minimize sacral pressure.
Use extra staff and appropriate lifting devices.
Prevent contractures.
Provide adequate hydration and nutrition.
Do not massage reddened areas over bony prominences.