Prosthetic Care and Skin Integrity

Flashcards created based on lecture notes covering prosthetic care, skin integrity, risk factors for skin breakdown, and preventive interventions.

What are the steps for washing the area before applying a prosthetic device?

Wash with soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely.

What should be checked before applying a prosthetic device?

Inspect the skin for redness or open areas.

What steps should be taken if redness or open areas are found before applying a prosthesis?

Do not apply the prosthesis and report to the nurse.

What role do nursing assistants play in maintaining skin integrity?

They help keep the resident's skin healthy and prevent skin breakdown.

What are common areas where rashes may occur due to skin-on-skin contact?

Under breasts, under arms, and between skin folds.

What should be done if a rash is found?

Wash, rinse, and dry the area well using clean washcloths and towels.

What can cause skin breakdown when using devices like IV or oxygen tubing?

Devices can create friction and may contain materials like latex that can cause allergic reactions.

What are friction and shearing injuries?

Friction occurs when skin layers move against each other, while shearing occurs when the skin sticks to linens as the body slides.

What are pressure injuries also known as?

Decubitus ulcers, pressure sores, or bed sores.

What bony prominences are commonly affected by pressure injuries?

Coccyx, sacrum, ischial tuberosities, heels, trochanters, ankles, shoulder blades, ears, and base of the skull.

What is the significance of Stage 1 pressure injury?

The skin is reddened, does not blanch, and may feel softer or firmer.

What characterizes a Stage 2 pressure injury?

Open skin with involvement of the epidermis and sometimes the dermis, appearing as a shallow crater.

What happens in a Stage 3 pressure injury?

It affects the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, appearing as a deep crater with possible necrotic tissue.

What defines a Stage 4 pressure injury?

It involves damage to the dermis, epidermis, subcutaneous tissue, and supportive tissues including muscle and bone.

What is a major risk factor for developing pressure injuries?

Immobility of the resident.

How can poor nutrition contribute to skin breakdown?

Lack of adequate calories and proteins can weaken skin and hinder healing.

What does the term maceration refer to in skin health?

Softening of the skin due to constant moisture exposure.

What interventions can be taken to prevent skin breakdown?

Regular inspection and cleanliness of the skin, maintaining proper hydration, and applying barrier creams.

How often should residents at risk for skin breakdown be repositioned?

At least every 2 hours.

Why should incontinence care be performed every 2 hours?

To prevent skin damage from constant moisture exposure.

How can protein intake support skin health?

It is essential for creating and maintaining healthy skin tissue.

What is the recommended action if a skin injury occurs?

Report it to the nurse immediately.

What should be used when moving a resident upward in bed to prevent friction and shearing?

A friction/shearing prevention device.

How do you use a friction/shearing prevention device?

Roll it under the resident and slide them up in bed with two nursing assistants' assistance.

What kind of mattress may be beneficial for residents at high risk for skin breakdown?

Low air loss (LAL) mattresses.

What should be done with incontinence products to maintain hygiene?

Disposable incontinence pads should be used instead of reusable ones.

What measures can be taken to manage the microclimate around a resident?

Repositioning frequently and minimizing the number of coverings.

What should a nursing assistant do during daily skin inspections?

Closely inspect high-pressure areas for new redness, discoloration, rashes, or blisters.

What role does hydration play in skin health?

Maintains skin moisture and elasticity, preventing damage.

What is the importance of using pillows in resident care?

Pillows relieve pressure from bony prominences and reduce friction.

What is a potential sign of dehydration in residents?

Dry, cracked lips and itchy skin.

What should be checked regarding supportive materials before applying a prosthetic device?

Ensure there are no wrinkles in supportive materials.

What can be a consequence of not addressing areas of skin irritation promptly?

Infection or worsening skin condition.

What is the correct action if the resident is in pain when fitting a prosthetic device?

Remove the prosthesis and start the fitting over.

How can continuous repositioning help prevent skin injuries?

Reduces prolonged pressure on skin areas to avoid breakdown.

What is the danger of pressure injuries?

They can lead to infection, sepsis, and death if not treated properly.

What type of aids can be used for resident positioning?

Extra pillows, wedge pillows, or rolled-up blankets.

What dietary modifications can help prevent skin breakdown?

Increased protein intake and access to fluids and snacks.

How should the skin be treated after identifying a rash?

Wash, rinse, and dry the area thoroughly.

What is a sign that incontinence care has not been performed adequately?

Presence of skin breakdown due to moisture.

What is the recommended action if skin is broken?

Report the issue and assist with dressing changes as needed.

What defines necrotic tissue in a pressure injury?

Dead tissue that may require surgical debridement.

What can be offered to a resident for hydration besides water?

Snacks that are liquids or liquids at room temperature.

How often should caregivers check skin folds in obese residents?

Regularly, to ensure proper cleaning and drying.

What should nursing assistants wear during resident bathing to prevent germ exposure?

Gloves.

What can a patient experience with altered level of consciousness regarding pressure injuries?

Inability to move or respond to pain.

What should be the focus of skin inspections for residents with limited mobility?

High-pressure areas like heels and coccyx.

What is the ideal position for residents at risk for shearing injuries?

Keep the head of the bed elevated as little as possible.

What should be monitored in residents with skin injuries?

Signs of healing or further breakdown.

How frequently should nursing assistants offer fluids to residents?

At all times, with fresh water offered at least once each shift.

What should caregivers ensure about the use of washcloths?

They must be clean to prevent the spread of infection.

What condition can be exacerbated by friction or shearing?

Skin breakdown, potentially leading to pressure injuries.

How can positioning aids assist in resident care?

They help align the body and relieve pressure on vulnerable areas.

What is the policy around using cornstarch for skin dryness?

Check facility policies due to respiratory irritation potential.

What should caregivers position under elbows to prevent skin damage?

Pillows.

What are some nursing interventions for residents in wheelchairs?

Reposition every hour and provide pressure-relieving devices.

What is the relationship between incontinence and skin integrity?

Incontinence can lead to moisture that compromises skin integrity.

What is the purpose of barrier cream during skin care?

To protect the skin during future incontinence episodes.

What should be avoided if the skin has open wounds?

Applying anything without nurse assessment.

What action is necessary when using disposable friction/shearing prevention devices?

Clean them and use them according to directions.

What is recommended for residents with bed sores regarding positioning?

Never position them on the side of an existing pressure injury.

What should be assessed for proper dietary needs in residents at risk for breakdown?

Protein intake and hydration level.

How can caregivers report any new skin issues?

By communicating with the nursing staff promptly.