The nurse is caring for a client with a stage II sacral ulcer. Which nursing intervention would be most effective in promoting healing?

  • a heat lamp positioned 12 inches from the skin for 10 minutes twice a day
  • antibiotic therapy as ordered
  • increasing the client’s nutritional intake of protein and calories
  • wet to dry dressings once every shift
Number 3 is correct.
Loss of protein in wound drainage requires high-calorie intake for proper healing. Heat directly applied to the wound will be ineffective to promote healing. Antibiotic therapy is not indicated as the ulcer is not considered infected. Wet to dry dressings are appropriate for stage III wounds.