Which is a complication of immobility that primarily affects the skin?

• A. Decubitus ulcer
• B. Hypo pneumonia
• C. Atelectasis
• D. Deep vein thrombosis

Answer: (A)

Prolonged immobility damages the skin from continuous pressure that reduces blood flow to areas over bony prominences. This causes decubitus ulcers (pressure ulcers), where tissue becomes ischemic and can necrose if the pressure isn’t relieved. Being unable to shift positions makes the skin over the sacrum, heels, hips, and other contact points especially vulnerable, and moisture, friction, and poor nutrition can worsen skin breakdown.

The other conditions involve different body systems rather than the skin: lung-related issues like reduced expansion and mucus buildup leading to hypo pneumonia or atelectasis, and a venous clot from stasis and coagulation factors leading to deep vein thrombosis. They’re serious immobility complications, but they don’t primarily affect the skin.