Bed-confined patients should be turned regularly to prevent which of the following?

Turning bed-confined patients regularly is essential primarily to prevent skin breakdown, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores. When a patient remains in one position for an extended period, the pressure on certain areas of the skin can restrict blood flow and lead to tissue damage. This is especially critical for individuals who are unable to reposition themselves, as they may not have the capacity to alleviate pressure from vulnerable areas such as the heels, sacrum, and shoulder blades.

Regular turning helps to redistribute pressure over the skin and underlying tissues, thereby enhancing blood circulation and promoting skin integrity. Additionally, maintaining skin health is vital for overall patient wellbeing since skin breakdown can lead to complications such as infections, prolonged hospital stays, and additional medical interventions.

While regularly turning patients can contribute to overall health and may support aspects such as respiratory function by promoting lung expansion and preventing respiratory issues, the primary goal of frequent repositioning focuses on preventing skin breakdown.