What is the purpose of using a pressure-reducing mattress for an immobile patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A pressure-reducing mattress redistributes body weight to minimize pressure on bony prominences, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers in immobile patients. It enhances blood flow to vulnerable areas like the sacrum or heels, countering the effects of prolonged stillness. Elevating legs might occur with positioning but isn't the mattress's primary role. Exerting pressure for pain relief contradicts its purpose it relieves, not applies, pressure. Immobilizing during sleep isn't the goal; it's about protection, not restraint. Nurses rely on this tool as a proactive measure, complementing repositioning to maintain skin integrity in at-risk patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Ensuring all straps are snug and secure before using a mechanical lift prevents the patient from slipping or falling during transfer, prioritizing safety for both patient and nurse. Rapid lifting risks jolting or equipment failure. Quick lowering can cause injury or instability. Lifting alone defies safety protocols lifts require teamwork or proper setup, not independence. Nurses double-check fastenings and positioning, following device guidelines, to execute smooth, secure transfers, minimizing harm in patients unable to move themselves.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Performing oral care with a soft toothbrush and oral swabs for an unconscious, intubated patient removes plaque and secretions, preventing infections like ventilator-associated pneumonia while protecting delicate tissues. Frequent mouthwash alone doesn't clean mechanically and risks aspiration. Weekly care allows bacterial overgrowth, endangering health. Suctioning without gloves breaches infection control gloves are mandatory. Nurses use these tools gently and regularly, often with suction, to maintain hygiene and comfort, a critical intervention in critical care settings.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A bedpan collects urine and feces for a patient unable to leave bed, maintaining hygiene and preventing soiling, crucial for immobile or post-surgical care. Comfortable sitting isn't its role it's functional, not leisurely. Encouraging activity contradicts its use; it's for immobility. Alignment might be aided by positioning, but collection is the goal. Nurses place it carefully, ensuring privacy and cleanliness, addressing elimination needs safely in confined conditions, a basic yet essential task.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Providing oral care with a swab and appropriate solutions promotes hygiene for a ventilated patient by removing bacteria and secretions, preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia without risking tube displacement. Avoiding care invites infection tubes don't preclude it when done carefully. Drinking water isn't possible; they're intubated. Limiting to awake times ignores constant need unconscious care is standard. Nurses use chlorhexidine or swabs gently, coordinating with respiratory staff, ensuring oral health and systemic safety in critical care.