Which nursing action is most appropriate for documenting a newly developed pressure injury?

Documenting a newly developed pressure injury accurately is crucial for ensuring appropriate care and treatment. Describing the wound characteristics and measuring it provides essential information about the severity of the injury, its dimensions, and any other relevant factors such as exudate, color, odor, and surrounding skin condition. This detailed documentation helps in developing a care plan, tracking changes over time, and communicating effectively with the healthcare team.

Measuring the wound is particularly important for monitoring progress and assessing the effectiveness of interventions. By having a clear record of the injury's size and characteristics from the onset, healthcare providers can ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent further deterioration and promote healing.

In contrast, simply documenting the onset of injury without accompanying details would not offer a complete picture of the injury's current state. While notifying the healthcare provider about the injury may be necessary, immediate notification is not always required unless the injury is severe or leads to urgent complications. Delaying documentation could lead to a lack of continuity in care and hinder timely interventions, making it imperative to document the injury promptly and thoroughly.