Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is a common limitation of using air fluidized therapy for patients?

1. It is cost-effective.

2. Patient mobility is restricted.

3. It is easy to maintain head elevation.

4. The system is lightweight and portable.

The correct answer is: Patient mobility is restricted.

Air fluidized therapy, also known as a "fluidized bed" or "air-assisted therapy," is designed to reduce pressure injuries through the use of a bed that supports the body with a layer of warm air and small, non-toxic beads. While this therapy is effective for managing decubitus ulcers and promoting healing, it has certain limitations, one of which is the restriction of patient mobility. When patients are placed on an air fluidized bed, they may experience difficulties in mobilizing independently, as the fluidized air can create a sensation of instability. The surface is designed to contour to the body, but that can also mean that patients may find it more challenging to reposition themselves or get up without assistance. This limitation can affect their overall functionality and put them at risk of further complications, such as muscle atrophy or joint stiffness, especially if used for prolonged periods. In contrast, the other options present benefits or inaccurate characteristics of air fluidized therapy. For example, while air fluidized beds can be costly, they are effective for pressure relief and healing, thus balancing the cost with their therapeutic benefits. Additionally, maintaining head elevation and patient mobility might be more cumbersome compared to traditional support surfaces, and air fluidized beds are generally not categorized as lightweight