What is a pressure ulcer?
Pressure ulcers (also called bedsores, pressure ulcers, or bedsores) are areas of skin that are damaged by sitting or lying in one position. Over time, the blood supply to the area decreases due to weight, resulting in skin death and sores.
In most cases, the lesions form where the bones are close to the skin (called bony protrusions). These include:
- elbow
- ankle
- Back
- cure
- Tailbone or buttocks
- scapular
- Buttocks
- Back of head
These are common areas that are prone to pressure ulcers, but when you lie in one position for too long, ulcers may appear on any part of your body!
Types and stages of pressure ulcers
Pressure ulcers develop gradually over time and are divided into four stages according to the severity of symptoms. The first stage is the mildest, while the fourth stage is the most serious.
Stage 1
The first stage classifies the first signs of pressure ulcer formation. You may notice a small piece of red and painful skin that does not turn white when pressed.
second stage
In the second stage of pressure ulcers, the outer layer of the skin begins to decompose and form blisters or open ulcers. The skin around this area is red, swollen, and inflamed.
The third stage
In stage 3, the tissue begins to die and an open hollow hole (called a crater) is formed in the deep layers of the skin and fat tissue.
The fourth stage
In stage 4, the most severe stage, the pain extends down to muscles and bones, damaging tissues, tendons, and joints. Infections may also develop and spread through the crater, making the sores worse.
Other types of pressure ulcers
In addition to these four stages, there are two other types of pressure ulcers that can cause deep tissue damage and cannot be staged.
When pressure sores appear in the subcutaneous tissue, deep tissue damage may occur. The skin may be chestnut or deep purple, which is caused by blood-filled blisters under the skin. If left untreated, deep tissue damage can quickly develop into stage 3 or 4 pressure ulcers.
Non-staging sores do not meet any of the above criteria. These sores are covered with dead skin of tan, green, yellow or brown, which makes it difficult to judge the depth of the sores.
Treat pressure ulcers
Pressure ulcers can be easily treated in stage 1 or 2. Be sure to follow the correct wound care instructions provided by your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of progression or infection.
For stage 1 sores, gently wash the affected area with mild soap and water. If necessary, moisturize the skin to protect the area. For stage 2 sores, clean the affected area with saline solution (saline) to remove loose dead tissue. Due to the severity of the wound and potential complications, stage 3 and stage 4 sores need to be treated by your provider.
Your doctor may recommend safe, gentle cleaning agents. Avoid using cleansers that contain iodine or hydrogen peroxide because they can damage the skin. After cleaning, cover the sore with a clean special dressing to prevent infection. The correct type of dressing depends on the size and stage of the sore, but may include gauze, foam, and film.
Generally speaking, try to avoid postures that put weight or pressure on the sores, and get enough sleep and proper nutrition to help your body.
Prevent pressure ulcers
There are many precautions you can take to prevent pressure ulcers from forming. The focus of these preventive measures is to relieve stress to improve blood supply in the area.
Changing posture frequently and using pillows, blankets, and even stress-reducing tools may help. For example, if you or your loved one is in a wheelchair or moves in bed every 15 minutes. Using special cushions, pillows, mattresses, or boots filled with foam, air, or water can also help support the affected area without pressing on the underlying tissue.
These steps can also help prevent the development of sores:
- Keep the skin area in contact with the bed or wheelchair clean and dry, and moisturize the skin as needed.
- Check your skin daily for pressure sores. (If you cannot see an area, please ask your caregiver to check it for you.)
- Sprinkle powder on the sheets gently to prevent the skin from rubbing them, which can cause friction and irritation.
- To prevent friction, please avoid sliding or skidding when moving.
- Eat a healthy diet, which can provide your organization with the nutrients it needs.
Our skin is very important. I think of a story. A friend of mine works at home and works at a desk for about 8 hours a day. She suffers from pressure sores and is embarrassed to talk to the doctor. She ended the infection and she had to Receive intravenous antibiotics for 3 weeks! I hope my advice helps, but if you are concerned, please discuss with your medical team or nursing staff what you can do to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.
