Which statement best describes preventing pressure sores during shrinkage therapy?

Which statement best describes preventing pressure sores during shrinkage therapy?

• A. Socks must be dry
• B. Socks must be clean
• C. Socks must be dry and wrinkle-free to avoid pressure sores
• D. Socks must be wet

Answer: (C)

Keeping skin safe under compression relies on minimizing moisture and friction. When the sock is dry, the risk of skin maceration drops; moisture softens skin and makes it more vulnerable to breakdown and sores under a tight garment. Wrinkles or folds in the sock create uneven pressure and friction points where the fabric can rub against the skin, leading to localized pressure injuries. By ensuring the sock is both dry and wrinkle-free, you reduce both moisture-related skin damage and friction-induced force, which together helps prevent pressure sores during shrinkage therapy. Cleanliness is important, but dryness and being wrinkle-free specifically address the main mechanisms that cause skin breakdown under compression.

Keeping skin safe under compression relies on minimizing moisture and friction. When the sock is dry, the risk of skin maceration drops; moisture softens skin and makes it more vulnerable to breakdown and sores under a tight garment. Wrinkles or folds in the sock create uneven pressure and friction points where the fabric can rub against the skin, leading to localized pressure injuries. By ensuring the sock is both dry and wrinkle-free, you reduce both moisture-related skin damage and friction-induced force, which together helps prevent pressure sores during shrinkage therapy. Cleanliness is important, but dryness and being wrinkle-free specifically address the main mechanisms that cause skin breakdown under compression.