What is a bed sore?
Bed sores, aka pressure sores or pressure ulcers, are open wounds on the body where skin and tissue break down because of prolonged pressure.
When someone spends most of their time lying or sitting in the same position, the bony protrusions of the body place pressure on internal tissues. Over time, this cuts off blood circulation and leads to tissue damage and to skin breakdown.
Bed sores often are found on s
houlder blades, tailbone, hips, elbows, and heels.
What causes bed sores?
The number one reason is lack of movement. Age, poor nutrition, smoking, incontinence (sitting in their urine for long periods of time) also are factors.
How to detect a bed sore
Paying attention to your client's body helps you prevent bed sores or spot them early.
Every time you are with your client, do a head-to-toe assessment of their body. It's not hard or time consuming. While you're getting them up for the day, toileting them, or showering them, you can glance at their body or just look for red marks.
Do the blanch test on any area you think might be a bed sore. I always say better to be safe then sorry.
Call me! Please do not think the next person is going to report it or catch it.
As I always say in training, you are my eyes and ears. We are a team! Thanks everyone!
—
Michele
