Nurse Aide Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Prolonged immobility is strongly linked to the development of pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers. These sores occur when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, typically over bony areas such as the heels, hips, and sacrum, reducing blood flow to those areas. This lack of blood flow can damage the skin and underlying tissue, leading to painful ulcers.

Pressure ulcers can develop quickly, especially in individuals who are unable to move themselves or who have limited mobility due to medical conditions, surgeries, or elderly age. Prevention is crucial and often involves regular repositioning of the individual to relieve pressure, maintaining skin hygiene, and using special mattresses or cushions.

In contrast, issues like hypertension, hyperactivity, and skin allergies do not have the same direct connection to immobility. While immobility can contribute to a range of health concerns, pressure ulcers remain the primary and most common issue arising from a lack of movement.