Pressure ulcers in elderly patients

Pressure sores are common in bedridden patients. These days Dad cannot sit up or turn himself. What we need to do regularly is: if he is sitting, help him stand and walk to move his body; if he is lying down, help turn and change his position every 1–2 hours (more often is even better). In addition, the skin should be kept from becoming damp, especially in patients with diabetes, kidney failure, and heart failure, who have a higher risk of developing pressure sores.

The picture shows the areas where pressure sores commonly occur. Please pay close attention to every spot shown, because once a pressure sore develops it is difficult to treat and may lead to severe infection, even requiring surgery to remove dead tissue, or becoming life-threatening.

If a sore occurs, the most important thing is cleanliness. Clean and dress the wound and apply antiseptic until it is completely dry; sometimes antibiotics may also be needed. But if the wound does not improve within 24–48 hours or there is a fever as well, it is recommended to see a doctor for further treatment.

All of this requires the caregiver’s attentiveness and close observation of the patient.

Sending encouragement to all caregivers. ♥️
Piti #lotionForDryItchySkin #elderlySkin

Credit: JAMA journal www.jamanetwork.com