On which body part is skin breakdown more likely to develop?

On which body part is skin breakdown more likely to develop?

• A. Knees
• B. Elbow
• C. Shoulders
• D. Feet

Answer: (B)

Skin breakdown, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, is more likely to develop over bony prominences where the skin is in close contact with an underlying surface. The elbows are a common site for skin breakdown due to their bony structure and the pressure exerted when a person rests on or shifts their weight onto their elbows, especially in immobile or bedridden patients. The elbows, being less cushioned compared to other areas, are particularly vulnerable, especially if there are periods of prolonged pressure. Good care practices typically involve regular repositioning of patients to alleviate pressure on susceptible areas, including the elbows. While knees, shoulders, and feet can also develop skin breakdown, they generally have more soft tissue or muscle cushioning in comparison, and therefore are not as high-risk as the elbows.

Skin breakdown, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, is more likely to develop over bony prominences where the skin is in close contact with an underlying surface. The elbows are a common site for skin breakdown due to their bony structure and the pressure exerted when a person rests on or shifts their weight onto their elbows, especially in immobile or bedridden patients.

The elbows, being less cushioned compared to other areas, are particularly vulnerable, especially if there are periods of prolonged pressure. Good care practices typically involve regular repositioning of patients to alleviate pressure on susceptible areas, including the elbows.

While knees, shoulders, and feet can also develop skin breakdown, they generally have more soft tissue or muscle cushioning in comparison, and therefore are not as high-risk as the elbows.