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Preventing Bed Sores ~ Your BEST Treatment!
Why Prevention is The Best Bet for Treating Bed Sores
Bed sores are far from glamorous, but they are more common than you think. Caregivers are constantly faced with the challenges of treatment. They are painful, scary, and without knowledge of proper care, can really hinder one’s quality of life.
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Definition:
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A bed sore (also referred to as Pressure Ulcers) is an area of the skin affected by prolonged pressure. The area is typically painful and irritated, and if left untreated can progress into dangerous complications.
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Those who are most susceptible to bed sores are typically…
- Bedridden
- Elderly
- Wheelchair-bound
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Bed sores are categorized by 4 stages, each more progressed and difficult to treat
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Stage 1→ Beginning stages (easiest to treat). Discolored area of skin that is unbroken
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Stage 2→ Break in affected area and dead skin surrounding wound. Accompanied by blister
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Stage 3→ Infection develops deep, possibly down into layer of fat under skin. Accompanied by puss/drainage
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Stage 4→ Wound progresses deep into muscle and even bone. Accompanied by eschar (dry dark scab) *Bed sores that reach this stage are life threatening and frequently require surgery.
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Preventing Bed Sores Step #1
Let’s Talk Prevention:
Once a pressure ulcer has developed, treatment is imperative for proper healing. Each bed sore stage gets progressively more challenging to treat, so your best bet for treating bed sores is taking preventative measures.
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Preventing Bed Sores Step #2
Start by setting up for success (a.k.a. no bed sore developments)
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-A bedridden or wheelchair bound patient is obviously at risk, so equip them with the tools you know they will need.
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Alternating Pressure Mattress- designed to cycle air through individual pockets and relieves vulnerable pressure points while in bed. (Pressure cushions have also been designed for wheelchair use)
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Incontinence Pads- it is common for those who are bedridden to also be dealing with incontinence. Utilizing bed under pads is important to help keep skin clean. An accident may soil one’s skin which may expose an infected area to bacteria
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Creams and Dressings- can be used to protect and treat a vulnerable area. Remember that these will need to monitored and changed regularly for proper hygiene.
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Preventing Bed Sores Step #3
Take Action at First Sign
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If a bed sore is caught at the very first sign, it can still be easily treated with prevention techniques. Along with the use of pressure mattresses, incontinence pads, and dressings there are more actions you can take.
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Adequate Nutrition- Vitamins A, C, and E and great for skin repair. It is also important to make sure the patient remains hydrated. A healthy weight will also reduce pressure applied to surfaces of the body.
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Battling Friction- Friction from clothing or sheets can expedite the progression of a pressure ulcer and cause one at that. Keep skin hydrated and moisturized to avoid any irritation. Keep clothing and sheets clean and change them often. (Consider using powder on the sheets to reduce the friction)
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Frequent Repositioning- Almost everywhere you look, it’s recommended to reposition about every 15 min and in most cases this just isn’t a reality. Do you best to make this happen, but consider using the pressure pads or mattress as a substitute. The air will help cycle that pressure.
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By applying these techniques you can work with the primary care physician on developing a regimen that works best for both the caregiver and patient. Don’t let an area go untreated because it can lead to infection, amputation, and in some cases, death.
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*Remember, work hard at preventing bed sores because it’s much easier than treatment.
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Published with Permission
Author: Jessica Hegg
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