fingernails short.

® scratching can cause

lesions and open sores.

6. Provide frequent
skin care; minimize
contact with moisture/
excretions.
® Excessive dryness or
moisture damages skin
and hastens breakdown.
5. Encourage the
patient to elevate the
lower leg of the patient.
® Reduces pressures
on tissues, improving
circulation and
reducing time any one
area is deprived of full
blood flow.
6. Provide frequent

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 skin care; minimize
contact with moisture/
excretions.
® Excessive dryness or
moisture damages skin
and hastens breakdown.
8. Encouraged or
assisted in
repositioning on a
regular schedule while
in bed/chair, passive
exercise as appropriate.
® Repositioning
reduces pressure on the
edematous tissues to
improve circulation.
Exercise also enhance
circulation and improve
or maintain joint
mobility.
9. Recommend

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 elevation of lower
extremities.
® Elevation enhances
venous return and
reduces edema
formation in
extremities.
10. Keep linens dry and
free of wrinkles.
® Moisture aggravates
pruritus and increases
risk of skin breakdown.
11. Suggest skin lotions
or emollients for dry,
scaling skin.
® Lotions and
emollients can provide
lubrication and lipids to

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