How to prevent pressure injuries
Other platforms explain it with text and video. In VMS you practice it on the patient.
Pressure injuries form when skin is squeezed over a bone for too long. They are painful, slow to heal and mostly preventable.
Step by step
Assess risk
Use the Braden Scale on admission and each shift. A lower score means higher risk. [1]
Check the skin
Look at bony areas such as heels, sacrum and hips, and under devices. [1]
Reposition often
Turn at least every 2 hours in bed. Shift weight often when sitting. [1]
Offload pressure
Float heels with pillows and use pressure-relief mattresses when needed. [1]
Manage moisture
Clean and dry skin promptly after incontinence and use barrier cream. [1]
Support nutrition
Encourage protein and fluids. Refer to a dietitian when intake is poor. [2]
Reduce friction
Use a lift sheet to move the patient. Do not drag the skin. [1]
Common errors
- Not checking under devices such as masks and tubes.
- Leaving heels resting on the bed.
- Dragging the patient up in bed.
Braden Scale risk levels [1]
| Score | Risk | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 19 to 23 | No risk | Keep reassessing |
| 15 to 18 | Mild | Start prevention |
| 13 to 14 | Moderate | Add turning schedule |
| 10 to 12 | High | Add support surface |
| 9 or less | Very high | Full prevention plan |
Practice it in VMS
In VMS you do this on the patient, not on paper: every step goes on the checklist with a score, and in Teach mode Blocky tells you what comes next.
VMS cases that train this skill
Sources
- Open RN, Nursing Skills 2e (Chippewa Valley Technical College) (CC BY 4.0)
- Open RN, Nursing Fundamentals 2e (CC BY 4.0)
- The Joint Commission, National Patient Safety Goals
Facts and steps follow The Joint Commission, National Patient Safety Goals. VMS is not affiliated with these organizations. Updated: 2026-10-11.