Learn how to prevent pressure ulcers

News Release
Riverside Health Care

What is a pressure ulcer?
A change or break in the skin caused by constant pressure, especially bony areas such as the ankle, tailbone, or elbow. can range in severity from very superficial to wounds that extend down to the bone. can be very painful and can take several months to heal. a study was done that showed that one in four patients in acute care across Canada have a pressure ulcer.
What does a pressure ulcer look like?
Aan appear as a red or discoloured area on the skin, blister, or as an open sore.
How do pressure ulcers develop?
When skin is compressed against another surface, causing constant pressure on a body part, thus limiting blood flow to the area.
When the body is rubbed, dragged, or slid against a surface such as a bed sheet. This is known as friction or shear.
How long does it take to develop a pressure ulcer?
It can happen over a short period of time. Areas that receive pressure such as heels, elbows, and tailbones may become red or discoloured quite quickly in bed-bound or chair-bound persons. If these bony areas are not protected they may worsen and become open sores.
Tips for preventing Pressure Ulcers: MOVE
M – make frequent and small position changes and use specialty support surfaces to prevent reddened or discoloured skin. Sitting in bed with the head of the bed elevated places increased stress on the skin on your buttock area. Avoid this if you can by sitting up in a chair to eat meals and when watching TV or reading etc.
O – observe your skin daily. Look at your skin everyday and tell someone if you notice any changes.
V – value your skin. Keep it clean, dry, and protected, and provide it with nourishment by eating healthy foods and drinking lots of fluids.
E – expect to be cared for by a qualified team of health-care professionals.
Patients admitted to the hospital are assessed for risk of pressure ulcer development on admission and a pressure ulcer prevention care plan is designed especially for them.
If you or someone you know is at risk for a pressure ulcer, contact a health-care professional. You can get more information at HYPERLINK “http://www.preventpressureulcers.ca” www.preventpressureulcers.ca or contact Dee O’Sullivan-Drombolis at Riverside Health Care Facilities 274-4815.