The nurse observes that the client is on a low-air-loss bed. Which client admitting diagnosis contraindicates the use of this mattress?

Question

1. Osteoporosis
2. Spinal fracture
3. Upper body burns
4. Chronic bronchitis

Answer 1

2
2. An unstable spine contraindicates the use of a low-air-loss bed because the bed's surface is slippery, making it very difficult to maintain skeletal alignment. If the client's spine moves before the surgical repair, bone fragments are likely to exacerbate a spinal cord injury with potentially devastating results.
1. This bed is suitable for a client with osteoporosis because it is easy to transfer clients in and out of bed and provides pressure relief.
3. This is suitable for a client with burns to the upper body or who has burns on mul-tiple surfaces; therefore, the client can benefit from the pressure relief to promote skin integrity and the need for less frequent turning to reduce client pain.
4. The client with chronic bronchitis is a suitable candidate for this bed because the nurse can raise the head of the bed to facilitate client chest expansion, coughing, and deep breathing.