How Can Pressure Ulcers Be Prevented?
If bedridden or immobile with diabetes, circulation problems, incontinence, or mental disabilities, you should be checked for pressure sores every day. Look for reddened areas that, when pressed, do not turn white. Also look for blisters, sores, or craters. In addition, take the following steps: • Change position at least every two hours to relieve pressure. • Use items that can help reduce pressure — pillows, sheepskin, foam padding, and powders from medical supply stores. • Eat healthy, well-balanced meals. • Exercise daily, including range-of-motion exercises for immobile patients. • Keep skin clean and dry. Persons with incontinence need to take extra steps to limit moisture. ________________________________________________________________ Vivacare public information from The National Institutes of Health Last updated July 2007 This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in plac
Prevention depends on identifying those at risk and eliminating prolonged pressure over bony prominences. Positioning the person at 30 degrees oblique reduces pressure on all five classical sites. A variety of special beds, such as air-fluidized beds, foam mattresses, and cushions, are available to reduce pressure over susceptible areas. In immobilized individuals, frequent turning can reduce the duration of exposure to pressure. Individuals need to be turned at least once every two hours to prevent ulcer formation. Care should be taken to reduce the shearing force and friction while turning. Unfortunately, the need for frequent turning increases the risk of back strain among caregivers.
You can take a variety of steps to help prevent pressure ulcers, or to minimize them once they begin to develop. However, for the bed- or chair-bound individual, some bedsores may be unavoidable. Bed-bound individuals should be moved at least every two hours. Chair-bound individuals should change positions every 15 minutes if possible. The patient or the caretaker should take care to wash the patient properly, especially if the patient is incontinent. Over-washing, and certain types of cleansers, can irritate the skin, and should be avoided. For more information, see our risk and prevention fact sheet.
