Which complications should be anticipated and prevented in an immobilized patient?

Which complications should be anticipated and prevented in an immobilized patient?

• A. Pressure ulcers, infection from repeated urinary catheters, and skin infections
• B. Hypertension and diabetes
• C. Bronchospasm and asthma
• D. Kidney stones

Answer: (A)

Immobilization heightens the risk of tissue damage from sustained pressure and moisture, so preventing complications like pressure ulcers, catheter-associated infections, and skin infections is essential. Prolonged pressure over bony areas reduces blood flow, while friction and shear further injure the skin. Moisture from incontinence accelerates skin breakdown and increases infection risk. Preventive steps include turning the patient regularly, using a pressure-relieving surface, performing careful skin care and keeping the skin clean and dry, and applying barrier products as needed. To reduce urinary infections, avoid unnecessary catheterization, ensure aseptic technique for insertion, maintain a closed drainage system, and remove the catheter as soon as feasible. Good nutrition, adequate hydration, and gradual mobilization when possible also help. The other options describe conditions not specifically driven by immobilization.

Immobilization heightens the risk of tissue damage from sustained pressure and moisture, so preventing complications like pressure ulcers, catheter-associated infections, and skin infections is essential. Prolonged pressure over bony areas reduces blood flow, while friction and shear further injure the skin. Moisture from incontinence accelerates skin breakdown and increases infection risk. Preventive steps include turning the patient regularly, using a pressure-relieving surface, performing careful skin care and keeping the skin clean and dry, and applying barrier products as needed. To reduce urinary infections, avoid unnecessary catheterization, ensure aseptic technique for insertion, maintain a closed drainage system, and remove the catheter as soon as feasible. Good nutrition, adequate hydration, and gradual mobilization when possible also help. The other options describe conditions not specifically driven by immobilization.