How often should a patient's position be changed to prevent pressure sores?

Changing a patient’s position every two hours is a standard practice to help prevent pressure sores, also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers. This frequent repositioning is crucial because it minimizes prolonged pressure on any one area of the body, particularly over bony prominences, where the risk of skin breakdown is highest.

When pressure is applied to the skin and underlying tissues for an extended period, it can impede blood flow, leading to tissue ischemia and eventually causing damage to the skin and tissues. By shifting the patient's position at regular intervals, caregivers can promote better circulation, relieve pressure, and allow the skin a chance to recover, which significantly lowers the risk of developing pressure sores.

While some less frequent repositioning schedules may not provide adequate protection, every two hours strikes a balance between effective skin care and practical implementation for most patients, especially those with limited mobility or other risk factors. This approach is supported by various healthcare guidelines and best practices for patient care regarding preventing pressure ulcers.