How should you reposition a resident to prevent pressure injuries?

• A. Reposition at least every 2 hours, use turning sheets, and offload pressure points with pillows.
• B. Reposition once per shift.
• C. Reposition only when resident complains.
• D. Reposition never to avoid friction.

Answer: (A)

Regular turning and pressure relief is essential to prevent pressure injuries. These injuries develop when sustained pressure over a bony area blocks blood flow to the skin and underlying tissue, especially over the sacrum, heels, hips, and elbows. Repositioning at least every two hours relieves that pressure and promotes circulation, reducing the risk of tissue damage.

Using a turning sheet helps caregivers move the resident smoothly, which cuts down on friction and shear that can injure the skin during transfers and repositioning. Offloading pressure points with pillows or foam supports redistributes weight away from prominences—placing a pillow under the heels or between the ankles, behind the back or hips as appropriate—so the skin isn’t pressed directly into the bed for long periods.

Choosing to reposition only once per shift or only when the resident complains leaves the skin under continuous pressure and increases risk, while never repositioning would fail to relieve pressure altogether.