Effective pressure ulcer prevention in home care.
A bedsore, also known as a pressure ulcer or bedsore, is a severe skin and tissue damage that can result from prolonged lying or sitting. In home care, the prevention of pressure ulcers is of particular importance, as patients with limited mobility often spend long periods of time in bed or in a wheelchair. This article presents various measures that carers can take to prevent pressure sores.
A pressure sore, also known as a pressure ulcer or bedsore, is damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure on a specific part of the body. A pressure ulcer occurs when pressure on the skin and tissues impairs blood circulation, resulting in an inadequate supply of nutrients and oxygen. This can cause the tissue to die and an ulcer to form.
Since a pressure ulcer can progress quickly and also bring numerous complications with it (e.g. wound infections, pain), it is important to pay attention to appropriate prevention. For this purpose, the corresponding risk factors must be recognised and appropriate measures must be taken.
Risk factors for the development of a pressure sore
There are various factors that can contribute to the development of a pressure ulcer. Among the most important are:
- Bed confinement or limited mobility
- Poor hygiene or inadequate care
- Low blood pressure or poor circulation
- Incontinence or dampness
- Underweight or malnutrition
- Advanced age
The more risk factors are present and the more pronounced they are, the more closely monitoring and relief of skin areas at risk must be carried out.
Measures for pressure ulcer prevention
Family caregivers can take various measures to prevent pressure sores:
1. regular repositioning (positioning) and mobilisation: the patient's position should be changed regularly (about every two hours), according to the individual risk, in order to avoid permanent pressure on certain areas of the body. Patients who are not independently mobile should also receive regular encouragement to move through passive movements or physiotherapy.
2. adaptation of nutrition: a balanced and protein-rich diet is important to support the build-up and regeneration of skin and tissue structures.
3. skin care and hygiene: regular and thorough cleansing of the skin and avoidance of moisture (e.g. in case of incontinence) are crucial to avoid skin irritations.
4. use of aids to relieve pressure: special positioning aids such as anti-decubitus mattresses and positioning pillows can help to reduce pressure on certain areas of the body and thus reduce the risk of a decubitus. Also make sure that there are no foreign objects (e.g. care utensils) on the lying or sitting surface that can cause additional pressure.
5. regular skin observation: The patient's skin should be checked regularly for redness and abnormalities. Pressure ulcers are particularly common in areas of the body where bones are close to the skin surface (e.g. heels, shoulder blades, rump, hip bones).
What to do if a pressure ulcer is already present?
If you notice reddening of the skin that does not disappear despite pressure relief, but also if a blister has developed or an unusual discolouration of the skin is visible, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Do not use ointments or home remedies that have not been prescribed by a doctor for this case. Blisters must not be opened under any circumstances. Clarify the further course of action with the doctor and seek expert assistance from nursing services if necessary.
Conclusion
A pressure ulcer is a great burden for persons in need of care and their relatives. Therefore, effective pressure ulcer prevention in home care is indispensable. Through regular repositioning and mobilisation, an adapted diet, suitable skin care and hygiene measures as well as the use of aids to relieve pressure, caring relatives can contribute to minimising the risk of a pressure ulcer. It is important to always consult experts and specialists in order to receive the best possible advice and support.