We know that sitting for prolonged periods is not good for our health and that moving can help prevent medical issues such as high blood pressure and back pain. In some cases, a person cannot move or change their sitting or lying position. This typically happens in people who are unconscious, paralysed or weak. The parts of their bodies that are in contact with a surface when sitting or lying down for prolonged periods are under constant pressure, increasing the risk of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and tissues resulting from constant and prolonged pressure on a body part. But what can you do to prevent their development?
Get Someone at Risk Moving
Motion exercises for immobile people and those who can change their sitting or lying positions promote circulation and prevent the formation of pressure ulcers. It is crucial to understand that moving from a bed into a wheelchair is also not enough because the pressure will continue after they have been sitting for some time.
For people who are immobile and would not benefit from moving to a wheelchair, a variety of movement exercises and repositioning them regularly helps. Some people might not want to reposition due to weakness or pain, so assisting them is crucial.
Use Specialised Bedding
Depending on a patient’s or loved one’s needs, speciality bedding like airflow and pressure mattresses can help prevent the development of pressure ulcers. Airflow mattresses contain air and provide optimal support for those at risk of developing pressure ulcers.
A pressure care mattress redistributes the patient’s weight to relieve pressure points and has the same results as an airflow mattress. Pressure care mattresses also relieve pressure on bony areas of the body where pressure can be concentrated, leading to pressure ulcers.
Other interventions to consider include heel protectors, mattress toppers and cushioned padding, all of which prevent pressure build-up in specific body parts.
Ensure the Skin is Always Dry and Clean
Constant moisture on the skin is a significant risk factor for pressure sores. It can cause the skin to break down quickly, leading to pressure sores. The risk is even faster if combined with the inability of someone to reposition themselves or in cases where they are not repositioned regularly by those taking care of them.
The carer should also ensure their skin remains clean. Skin sores can start small enough not to be noticeable, and if there are bacteria or other pathogens on the skin, the sores become infected leading to even more severe issues.
Using barrier cream as soon as a carer notices a pressure sore and keeping the skin clean can prevent additional issues.
Encourage a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is critical for healing and maintaining overall health in people at a higher risk for pressure sores. Eating and providing the right nutrients is more important than providing supplements in these cases.
Pressure sores are a significant worry for those caring for people at a higher risk for them. Preventing them using the tips above is possible, but keeping an eye out for them so they can be treated as soon as they appear is equally important.
