Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

How does massaging bony prominences benefit the patient?

1. It causes pain relief.

2. It prevents skin breakdown by increasing blood supply.

3. It distracts from the pain.

4. It assists with mobility.

The correct answer is: It prevents skin breakdown by increasing blood supply.

Massaging bony prominences provides significant benefits in preventing skin breakdown, primarily by increasing blood supply to those areas. Bony prominences are the parts of the body where bones are close to the skin surface, and they are particularly vulnerable to pressure ulcers, especially in patients who may have limited mobility or spend extended periods in bed or a wheelchair. When a massage is applied to these areas, it stimulates circulation, which enhances blood flow. This increased blood supply helps nourish the skin and underlying tissues, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen while also aiding in the removal of waste products. As a result, the risk of skin breakdown and the formation of pressure ulcers is reduced, promoting overall skin health. The other choices do not primarily address the crucial issue of preventing skin deterioration associated with immobility, making option B the most relevant and beneficial for patient care in this context.