How should nurses protect patients from skin injuries during care?

Nurses play a critical role in preventing skin injuries, which can lead to complications like pressure ulcers. One of the key strategies for protecting patients' skin is minimizing friction and shear. Friction occurs when skin rubs against clothing or bedding, while shear happens when the skin moves in one direction while the underlying tissues shift in another, often due to gravity. By avoiding these forces during patient care—such as when repositioning patients or transferring them—nurses can significantly reduce the likelihood of skin damage.

Using proper techniques to reposition patients, such as utilizing draw sheets and ensuring that the surfaces they are on are smooth, can help maintain skin integrity. Implementing careful handling during activities like transfers or lifts also contributes to skin protection. Overall, the focus is on creating a safe environment where the skin is less susceptible to injury, which is why avoiding friction and shear is fundamental to effective patient care.