How often should turning and repositioning be performed for immobile patients?

Turning and repositioning immobile patients every 2 hours is essential for preventing pressure ulcers and maintaining skin integrity. This practice helps to alleviate pressure on bony prominences, reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal problems, and improve overall circulation.

Regular repositioning also promotes comfort and can assist in the respiratory function of the patient by expanding the lungs more effectively. In clinical settings, the every-2-hour schedule is widely endorsed based on protocols designed to optimize patient safety and minimize complications associated with immobility.

While turning every hour might seem beneficial for pressure relief, it is often not practical for nursing staff to sustain such frequent repositioning consistently across all patients. Conversely, turning every 4 to 6 hours increases the risk of skin breakdown and complications due to prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body. Therefore, the recommended interval of 2 hours strikes an appropriate balance between maintaining mobility and ensuring patient safety.