How To Prevent Bedsores In Bedridden Patients

Bedsores or pressure sores or decubitus ulcer in elders are injuries to skin especially in the bony areas of the body like the heels, buttocks, hip, ankles, hips heels, elbows, shoulders and tailbone and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. It is more common in elders who are immobilized or confined to the bed for long periods of time.

It is significant to understand that bedsores account for 34,320 deaths annually, so there is need for healthcare providers and caregivers to prevent pressure points or bedsores in elders.

You can prevent bedsores in elderly people by:

It would help to reposition the elder every 2 hours to avoid prolonged pressure on the body; use a lifting device as a lifting sheet or Hoyer lift that helps prevent dragging of the person’s body on the sheet and causes friction to the skin.

Reduce pressure on the skin by using pressure reducing aids like cushions, mattresses, beds, booties, and elbow pads that are filled with foam, gel or air. Avoid using donut type devices as it would apply uneven pressure and lead to bedsores.

Ensure the time you turned and positioned the bedridden elder in addition to the other care you gave him or her. Also it is necessary to document whether the elder is eating and drinking properly.

Ensure your inspect the skin daily to identify vulnerable areas like buttocks, tailbone, knees, shoulders, hips, and ears where bedsores are likely to develop.

Make sure the head of the bed is as flat as possible because elevating the head at an angle forces the body to slump down deeper into the mattress and causes potentially damaging shearing force on the skin.

It is necessary to make sure that the skin is always clean from dampness and perspiration as this could accelerate the breakups. Ensure that you clean the skin with mild soap and warm water; do not rub hard, but use gentle strokes and pat dry with a soft towel. Avoid using products that contain alcohol as they could dry the skin.

Ensure that you keep the skin lubricated with a body lotion and use talcum powder in areas like breasts and armpits were excess moisture is likely to develop.

Adequate hydration is critical for the health of the skin, so ensure you monitor the fluid intake of the elder. It is necessary to make sure the elder at least drinks 8 glasses of water in a day. You could easily monitor signs of dehydration when you notice darker urine, dry mouth, and constipation.

Ensure you give the bedridden elder a nutritious diet that is rich in protein. Next make sure you give him/her dietary supplements such as nutrition shakes, omega-3, and zinc as prescribed by the doctor. It is also essential to make meal times a happy experience, making sure the elder eats the whole meal without refusing portions.

Lastly ensure you change wet bedding; also it is best to opt for sheets that are wrinkle-free and softened.

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