A resident's heels look red after lying in bed all morning. What is the best first action by the nurse aide?

• A.Massage the heels firmly with lotion
• B.Cover the heels tightly with a bandage
• C.Apply heat directly to the red area
• D.Float the heels off the bed with a pillow under the calves

Why

Floating the heels with a pillow under the calves removes pressure, which is the main cause of heel injury. Firm massage, heat, and tight coverings can damage fragile skin further.

Content outline: Physical Care Skills - Skin Care: Heel Protection · From the Physical Care Skills practice bank (PC-094).

Practice this domain as a full test

More Skin Care & Pressure Injury Prevention questions

• Mrs. Lee stays in bed most of the day. Which area should the nurse aide check most closely for pressure injury because bone is close to the skin there?
• While bathing a resident who uses a wheelchair, the nurse aide notices redness over the ischial area. What does this finding mean?
• How often should a resident who cannot move on their own be repositioned to help prevent pressure injuries?
• Which skin care practice best helps prevent breakdown for a resident with incontinence?
• When checking skin on a resident with darker skin tones, what should the nurse aide look for besides redness?