Pressure Sores

Overview

As the name suggested, pressure sores are the ulcers that occur at the pressure points of the body due to prolonged pressure, especially in a bed-ridden or immobile patient. It is most often develop on heels, ankles, hips and tailbone as the skin overlying these areas are constantly under pressure. The wound healing at these spots are relatively slow as the blood supply to the areas is impeded.

Signs and Symptoms

Unusual skin colour or texture change, Painful skin swelling, Abnormal discharge, An area of skin that feels warmer than adjacent areas, Ulceration

Risk Factors

Immobile individuals, Patients who underwent major surgery, Lack of sensory perception, Poor nutritional intake, Diabetes mellitus, Vascular disease

Treatment and Prevention

Shift weights or positions frequently with aid, Use cushions or mattress such as doughnut cushions or waterbeds, Always keep the skin dry and clean, Frequent inspection of the skin for changes, Improve nutritional intake, Manage the underlying risk factors, Use appropriate dressings for the wound, Wound debridement