SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PRESSURE SORES

The early symptoms of pressure sores are redness, tenderness, discomfort and smarting.The area becomes cold to touch and insensitive. There is local oedema. Later the area becomes blue, purple or mottled. Due to continued pressure, the circulation is cut off, the gangrene develops and the affected area is sloughed off.

PREVENTION OF PRESSURE SORES

1. Identification of patients those who are particularly prone to the development of decubitus ulcer.
2. Daily examination of the decubitus- prone patients for redness, discolouration or blister on the pressure points and they should be reported and treated immediately.
3. Keep the patients clean and dry.
4. Change the position of the patient every 2 hours so that another body surface bears the weight.
5. Use a bed cradle to take off the weight of the bed linen of the patient, so as to enable him to move in the bed.
6. Keep the patients skin well lubricated to prevent cracking by using powder.
7. Protect the damaged skin, damaged skin can be further irritated and macerated by urine, faeces, sweat etc.
8. Provide the patient with adequate fluid and with a nourishing diet that is high in protein and vitamins.
9. Use special mattress and beds to reduce the pressure on the body parts.
10. Use adequate amount of cotton under splints and plaster to reduce friction.
11. Encourage the patient to move in the bed as far it is allowed.
12. Teach the patients and the relatives about the hygienic care of the skin.