How often should weight shifts be performed for patients who are chair-bound?

Performing weight shifts is an essential strategy for preventing pressure ulcers and promoting skin integrity in chair-bound patients. The recommendation to shift weight every 2 hours is based on clinical guidelines aimed at minimizing the risk of pressure injury formation due to prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body. This practice helps to alleviate pressure, increase blood flow to the skin, and reduce the potential for tissue ischemia, which can lead to skin breakdown.

Implementing routine weight shifts at this interval is key in ensuring that patients who may lack mobility and sensation receive appropriate interventions to protect their skin health. This timing allows for regular redistribution of pressure across different body areas, making it an effective preventive measure in wound care.