What is the impact of immobility on the integumentary system?

• A. Increased elasticity of the skin
• B. Increased risk for pressure ulcers and skin breakdown
• C. Skin naturally heals faster
• D. No change in skin health

Answer: (B)

Prolonged immobility reduces the ability to shift weight and maintains pressure on the skin, especially over bony areas. This constant pressure compresses tiny blood vessels, cutting off blood flow to the tissue, causing ischemia, and eventually tissue breakdown or ulcers. Friction and shear from sliding in bed can further injure the skin, and moisture from incontinence or sweating weakens the skin and accelerates breakdown. Poor nutrition and dehydration also diminish the skin’s resilience and its ability to heal. Because of these factors, immobility markedly increases the risk for pressure ulcers and skin breakdown, rather than improving skin properties or leaving it unchanged.