To help prevent bedsores for a patient on bed rest, what should the PCA ensure about the bedding?

Ensuring that the bedding is free of wrinkles is essential in preventing bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers. Wrinkles in bedding can create pressure points on the patient's skin, which can restrict blood flow to those areas. This restriction can lead to skin breakdown and ultimately result in bedsores, particularly for patients who are immobile and spend extended periods in the same position.

Smooth, wrinkle-free bedding helps provide a more even surface for the patient, reducing localized pressure and friction. Regularly checking and adjusting the bedding to be flat and smooth not only promotes comfort but is a critical component of skin integrity management for patients on bed rest. This practice contributes significantly to the overall skin care strategy needed to prevent pressure injuries in vulnerable patients.