What client condition is identified as having the highest risk for developing a pressure injury?

In assessing the risk factors for developing pressure injuries, certain conditions directly contribute to an increased vulnerability. A client who has a T-tube following an open cholecystectomy is typically post-operative and may have limited mobility due to pain, surgery recovery, or the need for positioning that avoids pressure on the surgical site. This situation places significant stress on the skin, particularly over bony prominences, and can lead to prolonged pressure that contributes to the development of pressure injuries.

This client may also have altered skin integrity resulting from surgical intervention, making them more susceptible to skin breakdown. Additionally, factors such as immobility combined with the potential for moisture from drains can further exacerbate the risk.

On the other hand, clients with hypertension, controlled diabetes, or those who are mobile and active typically present lower risks for pressure injuries. Hypertension does not directly influence the skin's integrity or mobility, while a client with controlled diabetes is less at risk compared to one with unmanaged diabetes. Moreover, a mobile and active client tends to shift positions regularly, reducing the duration of pressure on any given area, which lowers the likelihood of developing pressure injuries.