How do you identify and manage a resident at risk for skin breakdown?

• A. Assess mobility and moisture, keep skin clean and dry, turn regularly, use barrier creams or special mattresses as ordered.
• B. Massage the skin every hour to increase circulation.
• C. Apply thick ointments regardless of moisture level.
• D. Allow moisture to remain on skin to soothe it.

Answer: (A)

Preventing skin breakdown starts with recognizing who is at risk and protecting the skin from pressure, moisture, and friction. Identify residents who have limited mobility and those with excess moisture (incontinence, sweating) because these factors increase the chance of skin damage. Management centers on assessing mobility and moisture, keeping the skin clean and dry, turning the resident regularly to relieve pressure, and using barrier creams or specialized pressure-relieving surfaces as ordered to shield the skin.

Using other approaches can worsen the risk. Massaging the skin hourly can create friction and shear, potentially injuring fragile tissue. Applying thick ointments without considering the skin’s moisture level can trap moisture or ignore the underlying issue. Allowing moisture to remain on the skin promotes maceration and further breaks down the skin. Following these preventive steps helps maintain skin integrity.