To prevent bedsores in bedridden elderly patients, what should be done?

Changing positions every two hours is a crucial intervention to prevent bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, in bedridden elderly patients. When patients remain in one position for prolonged periods, the pressure on specific areas of the skin, particularly over bony prominences, can impede blood flow. This lack of blood flow leads to tissue ischemia and, eventually, skin breakdown.

By repositioning the patient every two hours, caregivers can alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas, enhance blood circulation, and promote skin integrity. It is important to also incorporate techniques such as using pressure-relieving devices and ensuring the skin is clean and moisturized to further prevent the development of bedsores.

Other options, such as changing positions every four hours or keeping the patient in the same position, do not provide adequate frequency of repositioning to sufficiently mitigate the risk of pressure ulcers. Additionally, ensuring minimal nutrition intake can exacerbate the risk, as proper nutrition is essential for skin health and healing.