A patient care technician is caring for a patient on bedrest. What action should the technician take to prevent a pressure ulcer from forming?

Repositioning the patient at least every two hours is a critical action to take to prevent pressure ulcers in individuals who are on bedrest. When a patient remains in one position for an extended period, the sustained pressure can lead to skin breakdown and pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores. Regularly changing the patient's position redistributes body weight, reduces pressure on specific areas of the skin, and enhances circulation, thereby helping to maintain skin integrity.

While using a special mattress designed for pressure relief may be a helpful measure and can work in tandem with repositioning, it is important to note that simply providing a specialized mattress without regular repositioning does not fully address the risk of pressure ulcers. Similarly, increasing protein intake can support skin health and healing, but dietary changes alone do not prevent pressure ulcers without intervention in patient mobility. The application of a heating pad is not a recommended practice for preventing pressure ulcers, as heat can cause additional skin irritation or discomfort.

Therefore, consistent repositioning is the most proactive strategy to reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers in patients on bedrest.