How to avoid getting a pressure sore
Keep Moving
12 Top Tips for preventing pressure sores
Pressure sores can be very serious if they are not cared for properly. They can mean a lot of pain and longer stays in hospital. Severe pressure sores can even damage the muscle and bone underneath the skin. At worst pressure sores can be life threatening if they become infected. This is why they MUST be avoided.
Keep Moving
The best way to avoid pressure sores is to keep moving - turn over or change position as often as possible. To help you with this you should get advice from your GP on:
- the best ways to sit and lie down
- how to adjust your sitting and lying positions
- how often you need to move or get help to be moved
- how to support your feet
- how to keep a good posture
- what type of equipment you can use to help
12 Top Tips for preventing pressure sores
Listed below are some simple ways of preventing pressure sores. If you are a carer these tips can help you in the way that you look after your patient. If you are at risk yourself, then these can be used for you to guide the person who cares for you.
- Identify if you, or the person you care for is at risk (see risk list on previous page by clicking here)
- Regularly check skin for signs of early damage – for example are there any key areas that are showing a change of colour, blisters, swelling or patches of hot or cool skin?
- Make sure you turn and change position regularly so you don’t put ongoing pressure on the same bit of skin
- If you are being lifted, make sure proper lifting techniques are being used and that your skin is not being dragged against something
- Make sure your bedding is wrinkle free and that there are no crumbs in the bed
- Eat a well balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids
- If you have to sit or lie for long periods of time, make sure you have cushions or mattresses or other equipment to help reduce the risk of damage
- Do not rub or massage the skin
- Keep your skin clean and dry and don’t use excessive amounts of skin cream or talcum powder
- Do not use creams or ointments without consulting your doctor
- Use special garments like pads and dressings to protect at risk areas like elbows and knees
- Protect your skin from friction
Remember that your doctor, nurse and carer are there to help you. If you think you or someone you know is at risk of developing pressure sores make sure you speak to your health professional immediately. Dieticians and physiotherapists can also help in preventing pressure sores.
If you need advice on equipment or garments that can help to prevent pressure sores click here for further contacts.
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