Bridging: an effective and practical method of preventive skin care for the immobilized person.

Various methods have been used in an attempt to decrease prolonged pressure on skin, especially over bony prominences, and thus prevent pressure sores in immobilized patients: turning frames, circle beds, flotation beds, and special mattresses. Bridging is one means of relieving pressure on bony prominences which is both simple and inexpensive. Through the proper positioning of pillows, a patient is supported above the surface of the bed with free space between the bony prominences and the bed surface. Several different positions for pressure relief are possible. Advantages of the technic include its low cost, patient acceptance, lack of mechanical components which can fail, and ease of training personnel or family members to carry it out.