To prevent pressure sores, how often should a patient in a wheelchair be repositioned?

To prevent pressure sores, how often should a patient in a wheelchair be repositioned?

• A. Every 2 hours
• B. Every 10-15 minutes
• C. Every 30 minutes
• D. Every 4 hours

Answer: (B)

Relieving pressure while seated relies on frequent pressure-relief to keep skin and underlying tissues receiving adequate blood flow. The areas at highest risk in a wheelchair are the sacrum and the sit bones, where continuous support can quickly cut off capillary blood flow and lead to tissue damage. By repositioning or performing a weight shift every 10-15 minutes, you interrupt that sustained load, restore perfusion, and reduce shear forces that contribute to sores. Longer intervals, like every 30 minutes or hours, allow pressure to accumulate and increase ulcer risk. If needed, combine frequent shifts with cushion adjustments or tilt-in-space strategies to maintain relief while preserving posture and comfort.

Relieving pressure while seated relies on frequent pressure-relief to keep skin and underlying tissues receiving adequate blood flow. The areas at highest risk in a wheelchair are the sacrum and the sit bones, where continuous support can quickly cut off capillary blood flow and lead to tissue damage. By repositioning or performing a weight shift every 10-15 minutes, you interrupt that sustained load, restore perfusion, and reduce shear forces that contribute to sores. Longer intervals, like every 30 minutes or hours, allow pressure to accumulate and increase ulcer risk. If needed, combine frequent shifts with cushion adjustments or tilt-in-space strategies to maintain relief while preserving posture and comfort.