Caregiving Tip: Prevent Pressure Ulcers
In this week’s Caregiving Tip we will discuss ways to prevent Pressure Ulcers. We will share ways you can understand what a pressure ulcer is, signs and symptoms, who can be at risk for ulcers and most importantly how to prevent pressure ulcers.
What is a Pressure Ulcer?
Read the care plan
Gather safety equipment needed
Talk with the patient about the transfer
Determine patient’s dominant or strongest side
Position the patient for the transfer
What are signs and symptoms of Pressure Ulcers?
Unusual changes in skin color or texture.
Swelling. Pus-like draining.
An area of skin that feels cooler or warmer to the touch than other areas. Tender areas.
Part of the skin becoming discolored – people with pale skin tend to get red patches, while people with dark skin tend to get purple or blue patches.
Discolored patches not turning white when pressed.
A patch of skin that feels warm, spongy or hard.
If the patient does not have early interventions, later stages of pressure ulcers include a painful open wound that may tunnel and cause a severe infection. Prevention is key!
Who is at risk for Pressure Ulcers?
Anyone can get a pressure ulcer, but the following things can make them more likely to form:
Being over 70 – older people are more likely to have mobility problems and skin that's more easily damaged through dehydration and other factors
Being confined to bed with illness or after surgery
inability to move some or all of the body (paralysis)
obesity
urinary incontinence and bowel incontinence
a poor diet
medical conditions that affect blood supply, make skin more fragile or cause movement problems – such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, kidney failure, heart failure, multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson's disease
Stages of Pressure Ulcers:
If a patient has a pressure ulcer, it is important to know the stage and document it. Remember to measure the size and depth. If there is any tunneling or undermining, document how far the wound goes and approximate location by using the clock method.
General ways to prevent Pressure Ulcers:
Remember to chart your transfer for the next person to review prior to transferring again. Things you want to include are:
The care provider should check for early signs of pressure ulcers everyday.
Treat your skin gently to help prevent pressure ulcers.
When washing, use a soft sponge or cloth. DO NOT scrub hard.
Use moisturizing cream and skin protectants on your skin every day.
Clean and dry areas underneath your breasts and in your groin.
DO NOT use talc powder or strong soaps.
Try not to take a bath or shower every day. It can dry out your skin more.
Drink plenty of water every day.
Make sure your clothes are not increasing your risk of developing pressure ulcers:
Avoid clothes that have thick seams, buttons, or zippers that press on your skin.
DO NOT wear clothes that are too tight.
Keep your clothes from bunching up or wrinkling in areas where there is any pressure on your body.
After urinating or having a bowel movement:
Clean the area right away. Dry well.
Ask your provider about creams to help protect your skin in this area.
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Attribution for this post provided by the Mayo Clinic