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The extent of the Bedsore or skin ulcer depends on the force and duration of the pressure on the affected skin. The pressure upsets the local blood circulation to the injured area which can lead
to the formation of a Bedsore. Some people are more prone to Bedsores and they include people with spinal injuries, patients who have been bedridden for a long time, emaciated or 'thin' people and patients
who suffer from a lack of sensation in the skin tissues.
Conditions which cause the Bedsores are due to the infrequent shifting of the patient's position, wrinkled bedding or clothing and
friction and irritation from poorly adjusted supports such as a wheelchair. Patients who suffer from incontinence are more prone to the ailment because of the moisture on the skin which causes it to become
soft.
The development of Bedsores goes through several stages. During the initial stage the area of the skin becomes red from the irritation. Eventually a Bedsore develops if the pressure on the skin
is not relieved.
To identify any problem areas on the body, inspection of the skin in good light is important and any redness or inflamed areas should be attended to. This examination should be
carried out on susceptible patients at least once a day. For cachexic (thin and emaciated), debilitated or terminally ill patients tissue damage may result in less than two hours. Remember prevention is the
key.
Bedclothes should be changed regularly and the patient who is bedridden should be moved in the bed if possible and areas prone to Bedsores such as the back should be sponged and then dried.
Isopropyl alcohol makes an ideal rub to increase the blood circulation. |
