Skin Health and Wound Care Basics
What is the primary goal of skin care in the daily routine of a Health Care Aide?
The primary goal is to maintain skin integrity and prevent skin breakdown, which helps avoid pressure ulcers or wounds.
This type of wheelchair allows for adjustments to the angle of the seat, helping to reduce pressure points for residents at risk of developing pressure sores.
tilting wheelchair
What should a Health Care Aide do if they observe that a wound dressing is not secure or appears to be causing irritation?
The Health Care Aide should report it to the nurse immediately, who will reassess the dressing and make any necessary adjustments.
How often should a Health Care Aide reposition a resident to prevent pressure ulcers?
A resident should be repositioned every 2 hours to reduce pressure on the skin and prevent pressure ulcers.
These boots help prevent and heal pressure injuries by allowing the heels to "float" and are worn while the patient is in bed.
Prevalon boots
How does proper hydration impact skin health for residents?
Proper hydration helps to maintain skin elasticity and prevent skin from becoming dry and brittle, which can lead to skin tears or breakdown.
When should a Health Care Aide report a change in the condition of a resident’s skin, like a wound or skin tear?
Any change in the skin condition, such as a wound or skin tear, should be immediately reported to the nursing team or Skin Care Champion.
This piece of equipment is used to keep a patient in a specific position and should be repositioned every two hours to prevent pressure ulcers.
positioning wedge
Why is it important for a Health Care Aide to assist residents with nutrition and hydration when managing wounds?
Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for wound healing, as they support tissue repair and immune function, both of which are critical for recovery.
1) Why is it important to check the labels on bottles for skin products?
2) What should you use to hold water for a bed bath / to wet a cloth for skin care?
1) you don't want to put on the wrong product!
2) Basin only. Never the sink. Why?
These body parts are most prone to pressure ulcers due to the skin covering bony areas.
coccyx, buttocks, heels, and elbows
This strategy helps prevent pressure ulcers by assisting residents with mobility and ensuring proper toileting
assisting with transfers and anticipating toileting needs
These environmental factors, including perspiration or exposure to fecal matter, contribute to the maceration of the skin, increasing the risk of pressure ulcers.
excessive moisture
This piece of equipment must be oriented correctly each time a resident is seated to ensure proper pressure relief and comfort.
wheelchair cushion
This material provides both pressure relief and moisture absorption and is used on various body parts as well as medical equipment.
Australian sheepskin
This lifestyle factor, including smoking and conditions like diabetes, can decrease circulation and increase the risk of developing pressure ulcers.
poor circulation