How often should a patient be rotated to help prevent pressure ulcers?

Rotating a patient every two hours is recommended as a practical guideline to help prevent pressure ulcers. This timeframe allows for consistent redistribution of pressure on the skin and underlying tissues, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood flow to those areas.

Regular repositioning helps to alleviate the constant pressure that can impede circulation, especially in individuals who are immobile or have limited mobility. By changing their position every two hours, caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of skin breakdown and the development of pressure ulcers, which are particularly common over bony prominences.

While more frequent positioning, such as every hour, might seem beneficial, it may not be practical in many care settings and could lead to caregiver fatigue or burnout. Conversely, less frequent repositioning, such as every four or six hours, increases the risk of localized pressure injuries, especially in at-risk populations. Therefore, a two-hour rotation schedule strikes a balance between effective prevention of pressure ulcers and practical implementation in day-to-day patient care.