For a nursing-home resident with a stage II pressure ulcer, which treatment focus is essential?

The most relevant treatment focus for a resident with a stage II pressure ulcer is centered around debriding necrotic tissue and obtaining wound cultures. Stage II pressure ulcers are characterized by partial-thickness skin loss, which may involve the epidermis, dermis, or both. Debridement is crucial as it removes any necrotic (dead) tissue to facilitate the healing process and improve the wound bed's condition. This process can help prevent infection and other complications associated with pressure ulcers.

Obtaining wound cultures is also important, particularly if there are signs of infection or if the wound is not healing as expected. Cultures can identify any pathogenic organisms that may require targeted antibiotic treatment, further supporting the healing process.

While other treatments, such as developing a repositioning schedule, applying hydrocolloid dressings, and protecting the skin around the ulcer, are important components of overall pressure ulcer management, they do not address the immediate need for proper wound debridement and microbiological assessment in a stage II ulcer. Properly addressing necrotic tissue and infections forms the foundation necessary for any further wound care strategies to be effective.