Which action is vital for a nurse to take while planning care for a client at risk of pressure ulcers?

Regularly repositioning the client is a crucial action in preventing pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores. Pressure ulcers occur when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, particularly over bony areas, leading to localized damage. By frequently changing the position of the client, the nurse distributes pressure evenly across different areas of the body, reducing the risk of skin breakdown and promoting blood circulation. This proactive measure is particularly important for clients who may experience limited mobility or have other risk factors that predispose them to skin integrity issues.

In addition to repositioning, other interventions, such as increasing fluid intake, teaching about nutrition, and keeping the skin moisturized, also contribute to overall skin health and wellness. However, the most direct method to prevent surface pressure and tissue damage is the regular repositioning of the client, making it the vital action in the context of care planning for those at risk for pressure ulcers.