Which action is most important to prevent shearing forces on the skin when moving an obese and dependent client toward the top of the bed?

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Multiple Choice

Which action is most important to prevent shearing forces on the skin when moving an obese and dependent client toward the top of the bed?

Explanation:
Moving a dependent or obese patient with minimal skin trauma relies on reducing shear by using a device that allows sliding rather than dragging. Placing a turn sheet under the client and pulling on it lets you reposition the patient toward the top of the bed with the force spread through the sheet and mattress, not directly across the skin. This decreases the shearing force on the skin, which helps protect against tissue injury and ulcers, especially when lifting or repositioning a heavy patient. Powder on the sheet doesn’t prevent shear and isn’t a protective measure, and while getting help is wise for safety, the key step to prevent skin damage from shear is using the turn sheet to slide the patient rather than pulling directly on the skin.

Moving a dependent or obese patient with minimal skin trauma relies on reducing shear by using a device that allows sliding rather than dragging. Placing a turn sheet under the client and pulling on it lets you reposition the patient toward the top of the bed with the force spread through the sheet and mattress, not directly across the skin. This decreases the shearing force on the skin, which helps protect against tissue injury and ulcers, especially when lifting or repositioning a heavy patient. Powder on the sheet doesn’t prevent shear and isn’t a protective measure, and while getting help is wise for safety, the key step to prevent skin damage from shear is using the turn sheet to slide the patient rather than pulling directly on the skin.

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