Describe the impact of immobility on at least two body systems. How would you help the person who is immobile to try to prevent those complications?
Please use the following article
Read Article: Ann Crawford and Helene Harris (2016) Caring for adults with impaired physical mobility, Nursing 2016, 46:12, 36-51
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Introduction:
Immobility is a challenging condition that can lead to complications affecting different body systems. As a medical professor, it is crucial to understand the impact of immobility on the human body and design strategies to help those who are immobile to prevent complications. The following answer will describe the impact of immobility on two body systems and provide actionable tips to mitigate the effects.
Answer:
Immobility can have a considerable impact on the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems. Inactivity leads to muscle atrophy, bone loss, and decreased joint mobility, leading to a higher risk of fractures, pressure ulcers, and contractures. Additionally, immobility can cause a decrease in cardiac output, blood volume, and venous return, which can result in deep vein thrombosis, orthostatic hypotension, and even pulmonary embolism.
To help people who are immobile prevent complications, several strategies can be implemented. First, it is crucial to promote mobility by encouraging regular exercise, range-of-motion exercises, and frequent position changes. Second, pressure relief surfaces such as mattresses, cushions, and heel protectors can help prevent pressure ulcers. Third, the use of compression stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression devices can decrease the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Finally, medications such as anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents may be prescribed to prevent blood clots formation.
Conclusion:
Immobility can cause multiple complications affecting different body systems, including the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems. As medical professionals, we should design and implement prevention strategies to mitigate the effects of immobility, such as encouraging mobility, using pressure relief surfaces, and prescribing medications to prevent blood clots formation.