Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissues. They develop from prolonged pressure, which reduces blood flow to the affected area, leading to open sores. Preventing bed sores is important to avoid pain and complications such as infection or deeper tissue damage.
Identifying Vulnerable Individuals
Individuals with limited mobility, such as bedridden or wheelchair-bound individuals, are at higher risk for bed sores as they cannot independently shift their weight. Neurological conditions impairing sensation increase risk, as individuals may not feel the need to change position.
Poor nutrition and inadequate hydration contribute to vulnerability by compromising skin integrity. Skin exposed to moisture from incontinence becomes fragile and susceptible to damage. Advanced age results in thinner, more delicate skin, less resilient to pressure and friction.
Key Prevention Methods
Regular repositioning is a primary method for preventing bed sores by relieving sustained pressure. Individuals in bed should be repositioned approximately every two hours, while those in a wheelchair should shift position every 15 to 30 minutes. Using pillows or foam pads helps offload pressure from bony prominences, and smooth bedding prevents friction.
Daily skin care and inspection are important for maintaining skin health. Skin should be kept clean and dry using mild cleansers, then gently patted dry. Moisturizing helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier, and avoiding friction and shear protects delicate skin.
Adequate nutrition and hydration support skin health and repair. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and sufficient fluid intake, provides building blocks for resilient skin.
Specialized support surfaces, like pressure-redistributing mattresses and cushions, reduce pressure. These devices distribute weight more evenly, minimizing localized pressure points. These surfaces benefit individuals with prolonged immobility.
Recognizing Early Signs
Recognizing early signs of bed sores is important for timely intervention and preventing progression. A Stage 1 pressure ulcer appears as persistent redness that does not turn white when pressed. On darker skin tones, this may appear as red, blue, or purple discoloration. The area may also feel warmer, cooler, firmer, or softer than surrounding skin, and may be painful or itchy.
A Stage 2 pressure ulcer involves partial thickness skin loss of the epidermis or dermis. It can appear as a shallow open ulcer with a red-pink wound bed, or as an intact or ruptured serum-filled blister. Early detection allows for prompt action, which can reverse damage and prevent worsening.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consult a healthcare professional if a bed sore worsens despite preventative measures. Seek medical advice for signs of infection, such as fever, increased redness, swelling, pus, or a foul odor.
Severe pain warrants professional evaluation. If uncertain about how to care for a sore, a healthcare provider can offer guidance and treatment. Seek immediate medical attention if the sore progresses to Stage 3 or 4, indicating deeper tissue damage, visible bone, or muscle.