CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which area of the body is most prone to bed sores?

1. Abdomen

2. Where the bones are close to the skin

3. Upper arms

4. Lower back

The correct answer is: Where the bones are close to the skin

The area of the body that is most prone to bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers, is indeed where the bones are close to the skin. This is primarily due to the pressure exerted on these areas when a person remains in a static position for extended periods, especially in individuals who are immobile or have limited mobility. Regions where bones are prominent can easily break down due to constant pressure, which restricts blood circulation and causes tissue damage over time. Common vulnerable areas include the sacrum, heels, elbows, and hips. The proximity of bones to the skin makes these areas more susceptible to developing sores, particularly in patients who may have additional risk factors like poor nutrition, moisture, or friction. While the abdomen and upper arms can experience pressure, they do not have the same level of vulnerability as the bony prominence areas. The lower back is also prone to pressure ulcers, but it can be categorized within the broader concept of bony areas near the skin. Therefore, the emphasis on "where the bones are close to the skin" highlights the critical principle behind preventing bed sores: managing pressure on these key regions of the body.