How often should immobile residents be turned and repositioned?

• A. Typically every 2 hours or per facility policy.
• B. Once a day
• C. Every 6 hours
• D. Only when the resident requests

Answer: (A)

Regular turning relieves pressure on one area of the body and promotes circulation, which helps prevent skin breakdown and complications in immobile residents. The usual guideline is about every two hours, or according to the facility’s policy. This schedule shifts weight away from pressure points like the sacrum, heels, and elbows, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers and skin damage. It also supports better lung expansion and cough effectiveness, lowering the chance of pneumonia that can occur when a person stays in one position too long. Waiting longer than two hours, or turning only when the resident asks, leaves skin and tissues under prolonged pressure and increases risk of ulcers and contractures. Repositioning should be done with proper alignment and using supports to protect vulnerable areas.