What nursing intervention is appropriate for a patient at risk of developing a pressure ulcer secondary to burns?

Frequent repositioning and skin assessments are critical interventions for patients at risk of developing pressure ulcers, especially in the context of burns. When patients have burns, their skin integrity is already compromised, and they may experience areas of immobilization due to pain, discomfort, or the nature of the burn treatment. Repositioning helps alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas of the skin, significantly reducing the risk of tissue ischemia and subsequent ulcer development. Regular skin assessments allow the nurse to identify early signs of pressure ulcers or changes in skin integrity, facilitating timely interventions to prevent further complications.

These proactive measures are foundational in nursing care for such patients, addressing both the prevention of pressure injuries and the monitoring of the skin condition, which is crucial in the overall management of care in burn patients.