Pressure Sores / Ulcers for Hospice Patients

We are often contacted for pressure sore matters. During of our home visits, Pressure Sores  is a great concern for many families. Below, we include information on pressure sore that you may find useful. Most importantly it is crucial to prevent a pressure sore from forming rather than treating a pressure sore. We sourced the information from www.cancerresearchuk.org. Hope you will find it useful.

 

What are pressure sores/ulcers?

Pressure sores are sores or ulcers on your skin.

 

Causes

Pressure sores occur when there is prolong pressure on the skin for too long. Like sitting or sleeping in one position for long period of time, thus reduced blood flow to the area. Without enough blood,   a sore /ulcer may form.

 

Who will likely get a pressure sore

 

Symptoms and Care and Treatment

 

A reddened, painful area on the skin that does not turn white when pressed. This is a sign that a pressure ulcer is forming. The skin may be warm or cool, firm or soft.

sore, you can wash the area gently with mild soap and water. If needed, use a moisture barrier to protect the area from bodily fluids. Ask your provider what type of barrier moisturizer to use.

 

The skin blisters or forms an open sore. The area around the sore may be red and irritated.

pressure sores should be cleaned with a salt water (saline) rinse to remove loose, dead tissue.., apply antiseptic cream

 

The skin now develops an open, sunken hole called a crater. The tissue below the skin is damaged. You may be able to see body fat in the sore .

Talk with your care provider about what type of dressing to use. Depending on the size and stage of the sore, you may use a film, gauze, gel, foam, or other type of dressing.

 

The pressure ulcer has become so deep that there is damage to the muscle and bone, and sometimes to tendons and joints.

Talk with your care provider, may need admission to hospital.

 

Pressure sores tend to form where skin covers bony areas, such as ;

 

 

Tips to prevent pressure sores


Prevention Is Better than Cure” is very true for bedsores

Relieving direct pressure


 

Skincare

 

General tips

 

References