Jordan Ellis
Pressure sores, also known as bedsores, pressure ulcers, or pressure injuries, are areas of skin damage caused by prolonged pressure cutting off blood flow to the skin. They are most likely to occur on parts of the body where the bones sit closest to the skin, such as the hips, heels, and back of the head. Pressure sores can progress from a small irritated patch of skin to a potentially life-threatening wound with extensive tissue death and infection if left untreated. Therefore, it is crucial to know how to prevent them, especially in hospital settings where patients may be at higher risk due to restricted mobility.
How to prevent pressure sores in hospital
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Skin checks | Check skin regularly, at least twice a day, for changes in colour and sensation (tenderness, pain, warmth, coolness). |
| Pressure relief | Change position at least every 2 hours when lying down, and at least every hour if unable to move without assistance. Change position every 15 minutes if seated, and every 1-2 hours if in bed. Use pillows, foam cushions, booties, or mattress pads to reduce pressure. |
| Hygiene | Bathe daily with mild soap and warm water, rinsing and drying thoroughly. Pay attention to keeping the genital area and skin folds clean and dry. Wash and dry skin and change clothes immediately after any stool or urine leakage. |
| Moisturisers | Use moisturisers approved by a healthcare provider. Apply moisture barrier creams to protect skin from sweat, urine, and stool. |
| Diet | Eat a nutritious, high-protein diet with vitamins and supplements as needed. Stay well-hydrated. |
| Smoking | Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke. Nicotine slows wound healing. |
| Exercise | Engage in daily physical exercise and range of motion exercises to promote circulation. |
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What You'll Learn
Regularly check skin for sores
Regular skin checks are crucial to preventing pressure sores, also known as bedsores, pressure ulcers, or pressure injuries. These sores are caused by prolonged pressure on a specific area of the body, which compromises blood flow, leading to skin damage and breakdown. They can occur anywhere but often develop over bony parts of the body such as the hips, heels, base of the spine, shoulder blades, and back of the head.
If you are in a hospital bed or wheelchair, it is essential to check your skin at least twice a day, in the morning and at bedtime. Use a mirror to inspect hard-to-see areas, and pay close attention to areas that are at high risk for pressure sores, such as skin in contact with casts or braces. Look for changes in skin colour, such as reddish, bluish, or purplish patches, and sensations such as pain, warmth, burning, or itching. Discoloured skin can be a warning sign of a pressure sore, so stay off the affected area until it returns to normal.
If you are unable to check your skin yourself, instruct a caregiver, loved one, or healthcare professional to do so. They should also be trained to recognise the signs of pressure sores, such as sores or reddish patches on bony areas of the body. It is important to catch these sores early (stages 1 and 2) before they progress to more advanced stages (3 and 4) that are more difficult to treat and increase the risk of life-threatening infections.
In addition to regular skin checks, it is important to relieve pressure on the skin by changing positions often. If you are in a wheelchair, try to change your position every 15 minutes, and if you are in bed, move at least every 1 to 2 hours. This will help prevent pressure sores from forming and promote circulation.
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Relieve pressure with cushions
Pressure sores, also known as bedsores, are injuries caused by a lack of blood flow to the skin. They are most likely to develop on parts of the body where bones sit closest to the skin, such as the hips, heels, base of the spine, shoulder blades, and back of the head. Pressure sores can be prevented by relieving pressure on the skin, which can be done through the use of cushions and pillows.
Cushions and pillows can help to reduce pressure on the skin and prevent the formation of pressure sores. When choosing a cushion, consider the type of wound and whether you are in bed or a wheelchair. Water-filled or air-filled pads can provide support and cushioning to the affected area. Foam cushions are also effective in reducing pressure. For individuals at high risk of pressure sores, a healthcare provider may prescribe a special mattress, mattress overlay, or bed for long-term use.
If you are in a wheelchair, it is important to have the proper cushion and seating tolerance. A pressure map can be placed under your buttocks to determine the areas of high pressure and ensure that your wheelchair is compatible with your level of mobility and activities. Additionally, make sure to change your position frequently, ideally every 15 minutes, to relieve pressure on the skin.
In bed, it is recommended to change positions at least every two hours to prevent pressure sores. Pillows can be used to reduce pressure on certain areas of the body. It is also important to keep the skin clean and dry, as moisture from sweat, urine, or stool can increase the risk of pressure sores. Moisture barrier creams can be applied to protect the skin.
By using cushions and pillows to relieve pressure, maintaining good skin care, and changing positions frequently, individuals can effectively prevent pressure sores in hospital.
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Change position often
Changing positions often is a crucial aspect of preventing pressure sores in hospitals. Pressure sores, also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers, are areas of skin damage caused by reduced blood flow due to prolonged pressure on a specific body area. They commonly occur in individuals who are bedridden or have limited mobility, such as those using wheelchairs.
To prevent pressure sores effectively, it is recommended to change positions at regular intervals. If you are seated in a wheelchair, it is advisable to change your position every 15 minutes. This can be done by shifting your weight, adjusting your posture, or performing simple movements like leaning forward or side-to-side. It is important to ensure that you have the appropriate wheelchair with the proper cushion and seating tolerance.
For individuals who are bedridden, it is recommended to change positions at least every 1 to 2 hours. This can be done with the assistance of caregivers, who can help reposition the person gently, ensuring that different pressure points are relieved. It is important to use pillows, foam cushions, mattress pads, or water/air-filled pads to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas. These aids can be chosen based on the specific needs of the patient and the type of wound being treated.
Additionally, it is crucial to perform regular skin checks to identify any early signs of pressure sores. This includes inspecting the skin twice daily, especially in areas that are at high risk, such as bony areas with less tissue padding. By regularly checking for changes in skin colour, tenderness, or sensations, potential pressure sores can be identified early on, making them more responsive to treatment.
In summary, changing positions often, combined with regular skin checks, is a fundamental aspect of preventing pressure sores in hospitals. This proactive approach ensures that pressure is relieved from vulnerable areas, promoting healthy blood flow and reducing the risk of skin damage and the formation of pressure sores.
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Keep skin clean and dry
Keeping your skin clean and dry is an important step in preventing pressure sores in hospitals. Pressure sores, also known as bedsores, are areas of skin damage caused by a lack of blood flow due to prolonged pressure on a specific body area. They can occur when you are restricted to a bed or chair and don't change positions regularly.
To keep your skin clean and dry, it is recommended to bathe daily with mild soap and warm water, ensuring you thoroughly rinse and dry off afterward. Pay close attention to keeping the genital area and skin folds clean and dry. In the event of stool or urine leakage, immediately wash and dry the affected skin area and change your clothing. It is important to avoid harsh soaps, skin agents containing alcohol, and antibacterial or antimicrobial soaps. Instead, use a moisturiser approved by your healthcare provider.
Additionally, regularly check your skin for any signs of pressure sores. Inspect areas that are at high risk, such as skin in contact with casts or braces, at least twice daily. Use a mirror to check hard-to-see areas. If you notice any discoloured areas, stay off of them until the skin returns to its normal colour. If you suspect any skin damage, seek guidance on recognising and treating pressure sores.
Pressure sores can be prevented by maintaining good skin health and relieving pressure. This includes techniques such as regularly turning at night, using pillows, foam cushions, booties, or mattress pads to reduce pressure, and changing positions often.
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Eat a nutritious diet
Eating a nutritious diet is an important aspect of preventing pressure sores in hospitals. Pressure sores, also known as bedsores, are areas of skin damage caused by a lack of blood flow due to prolonged pressure on a specific body area. They can progress from irritated skin to potentially life-threatening wounds with extensive tissue death and infection if left untreated.
Maintain a Nutritious, High-Protein Diet
Ensure your diet contains sufficient high-quality protein, as it is crucial for tissue repair and wound healing. Include a variety of protein sources such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and nuts in your meals.
Vitamin C and Zinc
Vitamin C and zinc are essential for collagen production and wound healing. Include vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries in your diet. For zinc, focus on consuming zinc-rich foods such as seafood, meat, legumes, seeds, and nuts.
Stay Hydrated
Drink adequate water to maintain hydration. Hydration is vital for healthy skin and optimal blood flow, which helps prevent and manage pressure sores. It also aids in wound healing by promoting the delivery of nutrients to the affected area.
Consider Supplements
In some cases, additional supplements may be necessary to promote healing. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if you require any specific vitamins or supplements to support wound healing and prevent malnutrition, especially if your diet is lacking in certain nutrients.
Avoid Smoking
Refrain from smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Nicotine slows down wound healing and can negatively impact your skin's ability to recover from pressure sores.
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Frequently asked questions
Pressure sores occur when there is too much pressure on the skin for extended periods, reducing blood flow to the area. Without enough blood to nourish the skin, the skin cells begin to die, and a sore may form.
If you are unable to move independently, ask a caregiver to help you change positions at least every two hours. You can also use pillows, foam cushions, or mattress pads to reduce pressure on the skin. Make sure to regularly check your skin for any signs of discolouration or sores, especially in areas where the bones are closer to the surface, such as the hips, heels, and back of the head.
It is important to maintain good personal hygiene and keep your skin clean and dry. Eat a nutritious, high-protein diet, and stay well-hydrated. Exercise daily if possible, or ask caregivers to gently move your limbs if you are immobile. Avoid smoking and seek help to quit if you are a smoker.
