Which patient positioning measures help prevent pressure injuries during surgery?

• A. Elevate all limbs above heart level for the entire procedure.
• B. Remove all padding to improve circulation.
• C. Padding, adjust supports, check bony prominences, and limit duration of pressure on vulnerable areas.
• D. Use a standard blanket without considering bony prominences.

Answer: (C)

Preventing pressure injuries in the operating room hinges on distributing and reducing prolonged pressure on vulnerable skin areas. Using padding and adjustable supports helps the body contour sit evenly, taking pressure away from bony prominences such as the sacrum, heels, elbows, and occiput. Regularly checking these areas during positioning allows early detection of excessive pressure, and limiting how long any one area bears pressure minimizes tissue ischemia while the patient is under anesthesia. This combination—padding, supports, attention to bony prominences, and time-limited pressure—best protects the skin during surgery. Elevating all limbs for the entire procedure, removing padding, or using a standard blanket without considering prominences do not provide that protection and can increase risk.