Risk factor
The primary risk factor for pressure ulcers (bedsores) is immobility.
All persons confined to a chair or bed, and their caretakers, should
take special care to prevent pressure ulcers. Chair or wheelchair
confinement is most conducive to bedsore development. Highest risk
patients are those that cannot change positions without help.
Prevention tips:
For bed-bound individuals:
 | Change position at least every two hours.
|
| If you cannot change position yourself, make sure your caregiver
uses lifting devices instead of dragging you to change your
position. Dragging causes friction that can injure skin.
| Use *pillows or foam wedges to keep knees and ankles from direct
contact with each other.
| Use a special mattress with foam, air, gel or water, designed to
prevent pressure ulcers.
| Raise the head of the bed as little as possible. When it is raised
more than 30 degrees, the skin may slide over the surface, which can
damage the skin and blood vessels.
|
| Spread weight as evenly as possible. Avoid lying directly on
hipbone when lying on your side. Support *pillows may help.
| *Pillows can be placed under legs between mid-calf and ankle to
keep heels off bed. Do not place pillows behind the knee.
| Wash skin properly, as designated in the following section. |
| | | | | | |
|