What is the purpose of repositioning a client every hour?

• A. To improve sleep quality
• B. To prevent skin breakdown and pressure ulcers
• C. To shorten hospital stay
• D. To improve appetite

Answer: (B)

Relieving pressure on vulnerable areas to protect skin integrity is the main idea. When a person remains in one position, pressure over bony prominences (like heels, sacrum, and hips) can compress blood vessels and cut off blood flow, leading to tissue damage and pressure ulcers. Repositioning every hour redistributes the person’s weight, reduces the duration of pressure on any single spot, and minimizes shear and friction that can injure skin. This directly supports maintaining healthy skin and preventing breakdown. While better comfort can come along, the primary goal here is preventing skin breakdown and pressure ulcers, not sleep quality, length of stay, or appetite.