Minnesota State Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Changing resident positions every 2 hours is recommended as a standard practice to prevent pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers. This frequent repositioning helps relieve pressure on vulnerable areas of the body, particularly in individuals who are immobile or have limited mobility. Continuous pressure on the skin can restrict blood flow to that area, leading to skin breakdown and the development of sores.

By repositioning every 2 hours, caregivers can ensure that the pressure is evenly distributed across different areas, reducing the risk of developing these injuries. This practice is supported by guidelines from healthcare organizations and is a fundamental aspect of providing safe and effective care in long-term care settings.

While changing positions every hour may seem beneficial, it is typically not necessary and could lead to undue stress for both the resident and caregiver. Meanwhile, changing positions every 4 or 6 hours may not provide sufficient relief from pressure to prevent sore formation, especially for at-risk individuals. Thus, the every 2-hour schedule strikes a balance between effective prevention and practical care delivery.