A terminally ill patient experiencing the final stages of death is incontinent. Which nursing intervention would be implemented to address skin breakdown caused by urinary incontinence?
A. Using adult diapers
B. Encouraging voiding as needed
C. Changing the bed linens every 2 hours
D. Inserting a catheter or condom catheter
Answer (2)
The recommended nursing intervention to address skin breakdown caused by urinary incontinence in a terminally ill patient is to use adult diapers. They help manage moisture and protect the skin from irritation. This option is both effective and comfortable for the patient.
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To address skin breakdown caused by urinary incontinence in a terminally ill patient experiencing the final stages of death, the most appropriate nursing intervention among the given options is (C) Changing the bed linens every 2 hours.
Here's a step-by-step explanation of why this option is most suitable:
Skin Protection : Frequent changing of bed linens helps to keep the skin dry by removing moisture caused by urinary incontinence. Moisture can lead to skin maceration and breakdown if not addressed promptly.
Prevention of Pressure Sores : Regular changing of linens can help redistribute pressure and reduce the risk of pressure sores, which are a common issue in bedridden patients.
Comfort and Dignity : Maintaining cleanliness and dryness contributes to the patient's comfort and preserves dignity, which is very important in palliative care.
Monitoring Skin Integrity : Each time the linens are changed, it provides an opportunity for the nursing staff to inspect the patient's skin for any signs of breakdown or sores, allowing for early intervention if necessary.
Other Options Explained :
(A) Using adult diapers : While they can absorb moisture, if not changed frequently, they can still lead to skin breakdown due to retained moisture.
(B) Encouraging voiding as needed : This option may not be feasible for a terminally ill patient who might not be able to communicate their needs or control their voiding.
(D) Inserting a catheter or condom catheter : Though this could reduce the risk of skin breakdown from incontinence, catheterization can introduce other risks like infections and may not be appropriate for all patients. Moreover, it might not align with the comfort-focused approach in palliative care.
In conclusion, changing bed linens frequently is a practical, non-invasive method to help protect the patient's skin while also ensuring their comfort and dignity during their remaining time.
