Bed Sore Treatment

Whom Does It Affects?

It affects people who are suffering from a medical condition which limits their mobility like paralysis, illness, old age, bed ridden patients after accidents.

Common Sites Of Bed Sores

• Tail bone, lower back.
• Heels, ankles and skin behind the knees.
• Back of arms and legs.
• Shoulder blades and skin.

Symptoms

• Change in the skin color
• Swelling
• Drainage of pus
• Tenderness in the affected area.

Causes

• Constant pressure on any part of body reduces the blood flow to tissue. This Cause loss of nutrients and oxygen to the tissues which lead to damage of skin.
• Friction due to rubbing of skin against clothing or bedding makes the skin fragile and prone for bedsores.

Grading

Pressure sores have four grades

• Grade 1: Skin discoloration usually red, blue, purple or black.
• Grade 2: Skin loss involving dermis, the ulcer presents as blister or abrasion.
• Grade 3: Necrosis or damage to the skin patch limited to the skin layer.
• Grade 4: Damage to skin and underlying saturation, such as bone or joint.

Diagnosis

Proper inspection of the affected area.

Treatment

• Grading /Staging helps to decide the best treatment plan for bed sore.
• Reducing pressure and friction by constant repositioning of patient.
• Use of support surfaces like bed cushions, mattress protects the skin.
• Cleaning of wound.
• Advance wound care management by use of films, gauze, gel, foams and sterile dressings

Prevention

• Regular inspection of the skin for redness or signs of discolorations.
• Keep the skin moist to prevent dryness.
• Do not massage the surrounding area as skin is too delicate.
• Maintain hygiene of the patient.
• Give healthy and nutritious diet.