Decubitus Ulcers
(commonly called bed sores/pressure sores)
Pressure sores can be very mild in condition (pink colouration on skin) or very serious in condition (wound that extends through to the bone). They are usually found on the elbows, spine, tailbone, hips or feet. If pressure sores are left untreated, over time the wound increases in depth and reaches through to the bone and becomes infected. If this happens and antibiotics don't work, amputation may be the only means of saving the patient's life. If sepsis (blood poisoning) develops then amputation may not be enough and so the patient may die.
The common causes of pressure sores are the friction of bed sheets, casts, braces, prolonged exposure to cold substances, poor nutrition, weight loss, diabetes, poor hygiene and dehydration. Therefore, anyone confined to a chair or bed is at risk.
Pressure sores can easily be prevented by:
- ensuring that if anyone is confined to a bed or chair that they change their position at least every 2 hours.
- using items that can help reduce pressure cause by bedsheets.
- ensuring the patient is eating well-balanced meals.
- ensuring the patient follows a good skin care routine.
Contact us if you feel that a loved one has suffered as a result of abuse in a nursing home. All initial consultations are free
