Which term describes the action of repositioning patients to prevent pressure ulcers?

The term that best describes the action of repositioning patients to prevent pressure ulcers is "repositioning." This action is crucial in healthcare settings, especially for individuals who may be immobile or spend a significant amount of time in one position. Repositioning involves changing a patient's position at regular intervals to relieve pressure on specific areas of the skin that are vulnerable to breakdown, such as heels, elbows, and the sacral area. By doing so, caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers, which are painful, complex wounds requiring extensive treatment.

Mobility refers to the overall ability of a patient to move freely, which is a broader concept that encompasses repositioning but doesn’t specifically focus on the act of changing positions to prevent skin injuries. Transitioning typically involves moving a patient from one care setting to another (for example, from a hospital to a rehabilitation facility) rather than changing their physical position for skin care. Ambulation specifically refers to the act of walking or moving from one place to another, which is important for maintaining muscle strength and circulation but does not directly relate to the prevention of pressure ulcers through repositioning.