Fundamentals of Nursing Q 91
For a morbidly obese patient, which intervention should the nurse choose to counteract the pressure created by the skin folds?
A. Cover the mattress with a sheepskin.
B. Keep the linens wrinkle free.
C. Separate the skin folds with towels.
D. Apply petrolatum barrier creams.
Correct Answer: C. Separate the skin folds with towels.
Separating the skin folds with towels relieves the pressure of skin rubbing on skin. Skin folds, in particular, may be difficult for the patient to clean thoroughly; the abdominal folds and groins may be ignored, leading to an increased risk of skin breakdown in these areas.
Option A: Sheepskins are not recommended for use at all. Skin folds present a challenge in the management of patients who are morbidly obese. The weight from excess adipose tissue in skinfold areas can have an increased risk of skin injury such as friction, maceration, skin tears and pressure ulcer development.
Option B: Skin folds and areas vulnerable to skin injury should be cleaned and dried several times a day. Alcohol-based lotions and harsh soaps, as well as talcum powders, should be avoided in these areas. If necessary, dry cloths to absorb moisture can be left in skin folds in between washing and drying of the skin folds.
Option D: Petrolatum barrier creams are used to minimize moisture caused by incontinence. Patient hydration should also be considered in the nutrition plan for the patients and the health of their skin.