HESI Fundamentals Study Guide Related

Review HESI Fundamentals Study Guide related questions and content

A client has been sitting in a chair for 1 hour. Which of the following complications poses the greatest risk to the client?

  • A. Decreased subcutaneous fat
  • B. Muscle atrophy
  • C. Pressure injury
  • D. Fecal impaction
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pressure injury. Prolonged sitting can lead to pressure injuries due to continuous pressure on certain body areas, reducing blood flow and causing tissue damage. While decreased subcutaneous fat, muscle atrophy, and fecal impaction are potential concerns, pressure injuries pose the greatest immediate risk as they can lead to serious complications such as tissue necrosis and infection if not addressed promptly. Decreased subcutaneous fat and muscle atrophy may develop over time with prolonged immobility but are not as acutely dangerous as a pressure injury. Fecal impaction, while uncomfortable and potentially serious, does not pose an immediate life-threatening risk compared to the development of a pressure injury.