Chapter 12: Support Surfaces and Special Beds

Chapter 12: Support Surfaces and Special Beds

 

Complete Chapter Questions With Answers

 

Sample Questions Are Posted Below

 

MULTIPLE CHOICE

 

1. The patient is admitted to the unit with a stage III pressure ulcer. When the different types of support surfaces are compared, which would be most therapeutic for this patient?

a.	Foam mattress
b.	Gel overlay
c.	Air-fluidized bed
d.	Air mattress

 

 

ANS:  C

Air-fluidized beds are recommended for use for patients with stage III and stage IV pressure ulcers. Foam support surfaces are recommended to reduce the risk of the patient developing pressure ulcers. Gel overlay support surfaces are recommended for patients who are wheel chair dependent, as well as those who are at risk for developing pressure ulcers. Nonpowered air-filled mattress are recommended for patients who are able to reposition themselves.

 

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Analysis                REF:   Text reference: p. 275

OBJ:   Identify the different types of support surfaces and specialty beds used for pressure redistribution. TOP:           Pressure Ulcers

KEY:  Nursing Process Step: Assessment   MSC:  NCLEX: Physiological Integrity

 

2. What is the most important factor in preventing and treating pressure ulcers?

a.	Proper use of foam or air mattresses
b.	Proper utilization of an air-fluidized bed
c.	Frequent repositioning of the patient
d.	Proper use of a low-air-loss bed

 

 

ANS:  C

Frequent repositioning, which temporarily relieves pressure, is the backbone of preventive protocols. It is the nurse’s responsibility to use appropriate turning schedules for patients in bed or on a chair. No bed or mattress totally eliminates the need for competent nursing care.

 

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Comprehension     REF:   Text reference: p. 274

OBJ:   Explain why preventive nursing care is still essential when support surfaces and specialty beds are used.    TOP:           Repositioning

KEY:  Nursing Process Step: Assessment   MSC:  NCLEX: Physiological Integrity

 

3. What is the primary purpose for the use of a support surface?

a.	To reduce pressure
b.	To promote patient comfort
c.	To increase circulation
d.	To facilitate patient movement

 

 

ANS:  A

Support surfaces aid in reducing pressure on the patient’s skin. Promoting patient comfort may happen, but it is not the primary purpose of the support mattress. A support mattress does not increase patient circulation, nor does it facilitate patient movement.

 

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Comprehension     REF:   Text reference: p. 274

OBJ:   Describe guidelines to follow when placing patients on support surfaces and specialty beds.

TOP:   Patient Assessment                          KEY:  Nursing Process Step: Assessment

MSC:  NCLEX: Physiological Integrity

 

4. When working with a patient who is being placed on an air mattress/overlay, the nurse should:

a.	apply the preinflated overlay over the standard mattress.
b.	bring any plastic strips or flaps around the corners of the bed mattress.
c.	administer an analgesic after the patient is moved onto the mattress.
d.	keep clamps or pins attached to the sheets to keep them in place over the mattress.

 

 

ANS:  B

When preparing an air mattress/overlay, bring any plastic strips or flaps around the corners of the bed mattress. This secures the air mattress in place. Apply a deflated mattress flat over the surface of the bed mattress. The decision to administer analgesic would be based on the patient’s condition rather than on the procedure. Pins and other sharps should not be used, to avoid puncturing an air mattress.

 

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Application           REF:   Text reference: p. 281

OBJ:   Describe guidelines to follow when placing patients on support surfaces and specialty beds.

TOP:   Air Mattress/Overlay                       KEY:  Nursing Process Step: Implementation

MSC:  NCLEX: Physiological Integrity

 

5. The patient requires a support surface to help prevent pressure ulcers. He has a large open wound on his leg that is dressed daily. The nurse must choose which support surface would be most appropriate. What does the nurse realize when comparing the different types of support surfaces?

a.	Water mattresses are better for patients with open wounds.
b.	Air surface beds cannot be used if the patient needs CPR.
c.	Water mattresses make it hard to regulate patient body temperature.
d.	Air mattresses reduce shear and friction.

 

 

ANS:  D

Water mattresses are no longer used regularly because they harbor organisms in the water; leaks in the mattress are risky for patients with open wounds; and the structural integrity of the building does not always support the weight of the mattress. Air mattress reduce shear and friction and so are a good choice for this patient. Air surface beds are equipped with a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) switch to instantly lower the head section from an elevated position and to deflate the mattress to provide a firm surface for chest compressions. Follow the manufacturer’s directions regarding the temperature of the water. Proper water temperature prevents loss of body heat as the patient lies on the mattress.

 

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Analysis                REF:   Text reference: p. 275

OBJ:   Describe guidelines to follow when placing patients on support surfaces and specialty beds.

TOP:   Comparison of Support Surfaces      KEY:  Nursing Process Step: Implementation

MSC:  NCLEX: Physiological Integrity