What are the major complications of prolonged immobility and what are the nursing interventions that could be used to prevent each?

Immobility for a long time can cause a variety of physical and mental complications. The following are some of the most common complications that can result from prolonged immobility:

1. Pressure Ulcers: Bedsores, or prolonged immobility, can cause pressure ulcers. This occurs when there’s prolonged pressure applied to an area on the body such as heels, elbows or the back. In order to prevent the development of pressure ulcers it is important that nursing interventions are used, including repositioning a patient every 2 hours, using devices such as mattresses and pillows, and maintaining proper nutrition and hygiene.
2. Atrophy and muscle weakness: Long-term immobility may cause atrophy and muscular weakness, which could further impair mobility or lead to complications like falls. Nursing interventions like range-of motion exercises, early mobilisation, and Physical Therapy can help prevent muscular weakness and atrophy.
3. Deep vein (DVT). Prolonged inactivity can increase your risk for deep vein thrombosis. In this condition, blood clots usually form in veins in your legs. DVT can be prevented by nursing interventions, such as leg exercise, compression stockings and early mobilization.
4. Respiratory complications. Prolonged inactivity can lead to respiratory problems, including pneumonia, atelectasis and other complications. This can occur due to a lack movement or deep breathing. Preventing respiratory complications is possible with nursing interventions like deep breathing exercises and patient positioning.
5. Psychological Complications: Long-term immobility is also associated with psychological issues such as social isolation, anxiety and depression. Nurse interventions like regular communication with the patient and emotional support can prevent psychological complications.

Nursing interventions, such as turning the patient and positioning them, repositioning every two hours and using pressure relief devices can prevent major complications from prolonged immobility.