What should be added to the nursing care plan for a bed bound patient developing pressure areas?

The best choice is to assist the patient to sit in a wheelchair regularly. This approach helps reduce prolonged pressure on any one area of the skin, particularly in those who are bedbound and at a higher risk of developing pressure ulcers. By enabling the patient to sit upright, there is an opportunity for better circulation and a reduction in the risk of skin breakdown, as the weight is distributed differently compared to lying flat.

Utilizing protective devices to maintain the patient’s position on her side can be helpful, but it does not create as much opportunity for pressure relief as regular sitting would. Meanwhile, raising the knees may lead to sliding down in the bed, potentially exacerbating the risk of pressure sores rather than alleviating it. Placing the patient on her stomach can occasionally be beneficial for pressure relief, but it is not typically advisable for prolonged periods, especially in patients who may not tolerate that position well.

In summary, frequent sitting in a wheelchair provides a proactive way to manage and prevent pressure ulcers, as it engages more of the patient's body in weight distribution and allows for better blood flow.