Which assessment finding indicates a potential complication of immobility?

The development of pressure ulcers is a significant assessment finding that indicates a potential complication of immobility. When a patient is immobile, the constant pressure on specific areas of the skin can lead to reduced blood flow, resulting in tissue ischemia and eventual breakdown. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, are more likely to form over bony prominences where skin is in contact with hard surfaces, particularly if the patient is unable to shift their weight to relieve pressure.

Factors contributing to the risk of pressure ulcer formation include prolonged immobility, inadequate nutrition, moisture from incontinence, and decreased sensation. Identifying the presence of pressure ulcers or signs of skin breakdown is crucial for nursing interventions aimed at preventing further complications, protecting the skin, and promoting patient healing.

The other options indicate positive outcomes or improvements associated with mobility or health, which would not typically arise from immobility. Increased appetite, improved muscle strength, and enhanced mobility are all signs of well-being and improvement in a patient's condition, contrasting sharply with the adverse effects of immobility, such as the risk of pressure ulcers.