Which interventions are most appropriate for a client with urinary incontinence to prevent skin breakdown?

Applying barrier moisture cream is a highly effective intervention for a client with urinary incontinence to prevent skin breakdown. This type of cream acts as a protective layer on the skin, reducing direct contact with moisture and irritants such as urine. By providing a barrier, it helps to keep the skin dry and intact, thereby decreasing the risk of damage and irritation that can lead to pressure ulcers or incontinence-associated dermatitis.

Maintaining skin integrity is crucial in individuals with urinary incontinence, as constant exposure to moisture can lead to significant skin complications. The use of barrier creams is a standard practice in skincare management for such patients, making it an appropriate and proactive measure to protect the skin.

While other options, such as elevating the head of the bed, providing skin care after each episode, and using absorbent products that wick moisture away from skin, may contribute to overall skin care and hygiene, they do not specifically focus on creating a protective barrier that directly addresses the risks of skin breakdown due to moisture. Therefore, barrier moisture cream is the most targeted and effective intervention in this scenario.