Prevention of Bed Sores
Bed sores are painful ulcers on the skin in areas where there is constant pressure. These areas are usually bony places such as the base of the neck, shoulders, shoulder blades, base of the spine, elbows, hips, sides of the knees and sides of the feet. Bed sores are common among the elderly and disabled people. Bedridden and wheelchair-bound people have the highest risk of developing bed sores. These wounds are difficult to treat, so prevention is best.
-
Causes
-
The most common cause of bed sores is the act of lying or sitting in the same position for hours. The pressure of body weight restricts the blood flow and nutrients to the skin. It can only take 2 to 3 hours to develop an open sore. Moisture makes the skin more susceptible to pressure damage. Diabetes, peripheral vascular disease and other medical conditions can restrict blood flow to the lower extremities, making the area vulnerable. Poor nutrition affects the skin by making it thinner and weaker. It reduces the body's natural cushion of body fat.
Categories
-
A Stage 1 bed sore is a red area that does not turn white when pressed with a finger. This is a superficial sore that has damaged the top layers of your skin. A Stage 2 is a bed sore with a blister over the wound. In Stage 3, the sore is indented, meaning that the tissue beneath your skin is damaged. Stage 4 is a white or black sore with a foul smell. This indicates that muscle and bone tissues are damaged. See your care provider immediately to prevent a fatal blood infection with a Stage 4 bed sore.
-
Nutrition
-
Eat a good diet to feed and strengthen your skin. Protein, vitamin C and zinc are important building blocks for your skin. The lack of these nutrients can impair you ability to protect and heal yourself. Eat a high-protein diet full of lean meat, fish, poultry and soy products. Always take a daily multivitamin to supplement your diet.
Inspection
-
Observing your skin on a daily basis is an important step in preventing bed sores. Check your skin for any red or indented places that indicate an area that is subject to pressure. Use foam pillows to relieve pressure on these areas. If you are bedridden, place a pillow under your hips, knees or ankles when lying on your side. Roll a fluffy towel up and place it under your neck when lying on your back. Place a cushion in your wheelchair when sitting for long periods of time.
Dryness
-
Keep your skin washed and dried. Washing regularly allows you to examine your skin for damage. Moisture increases the risk of developing bed sores. Sprinkle powder on your sheets to remove moisture. Apply a protective cream or ointment to your skin to avoid moisture.
Position
-
Change your position frequently. Shifting your weight from time to time reduces the amount of pressure put on the same area. Body positions when resting can become an unconscious habit, so make an effort to change this habit. Instead of lying with your ankles together, place one in front of the other. Do not lean your full weight on your elbows while sitting in a wheelchair.
-
