What is a potential complication of immobility that CNAs should monitor for?

Pressure ulcers and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are significant complications that can arise from immobility. When a patient is unable to move freely, they are at risk for skin breakdown due to constant pressure on particular areas of the body, especially over bony prominences like the heels, sacrum, and elbows. This prolonged pressure can impair circulation, leading to tissue ischemia and ultimately, pressure ulcers.

On the other hand, DVT is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins of the legs, often due to sluggish blood flow caused by lack of movement. The risk increases when patients are immobile for extended periods, making it crucial for CNAs to monitor and implement preventive measures, such as repositioning the patient regularly or encouraging range-of-motion exercises.

The other options listed do not directly relate to the immediate physical complications caused by immobility. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are chronic conditions that may be influenced by lifestyle factors but are not directly linked to immobility in the same way. Similarly, increased appetite or food cravings and frequent headaches or dizziness are not typically direct consequences of immobility, highlighting why monitoring for pressure ulcers and DVT is especially important for the care provided by CNAs.