Prevention of Pressure Ulcers A Patient and Carers Guide Information for patients Tissue Viability 01625 663375 www.eastcheshire.nhs.uk @EastCheshireNHS Leaflet Ref: 11491 Published: 12/2015 Review: 31 st Dec 2018 Page 1
What is a pressure ulcer? A pressure ulcer is an area of damage to the skin caused by unrelieved pressure (also known as pressure sores or bed sores). They can range in severity from reddening of the skin, to deep tissue damage involving muscle or exposing a bone. Pressure- Usually caused by sitting or lying in one position for too long. Shearing sliding down the bed or chair can damage the skin. Friction or rubbing repeated friction can increase the risk of pressure ulcers. Moisture on the skin from sweating or urine or faeces can reduce the protective properties of the skin. Skin should be kept free of urine, faeces or perspiration. Who is at risk? Anyone who is unable to change their own position Anyone who is ill or suffered an injury Anyone who cannot feel pain over parts of their body Anyone who has a poor diet and fluid intake Anyone who has multiple health condition Leaflet Ref: 11491 Published: 12/2015 Review: 31 st Dec 2018 Page 2
Where do pressure ulcers develop? Pressure ulcers usually form where there is little padding over a bony point on the body. Common places are: Spine Hip bones Heels Buttocks Knees/ankles Shoulder blades Ears/nose Back of the head Leaflet Ref: 11491 Published: 12/2015 Review: 31 st Dec 2018 Page 3
How to prevent pressure ulcers Inspect skin daily for redness, especially heels, elbows, ankles, hips and buttocks Clean and dry skin as soon as it is soiled Limit the pressure by changing position and moving as much as possible. Avoid using ring cushions Eating and drinking well is important to ensure adequate nutritional intake Avoid friction by careful transfers Use pillows or foam wedges to keep knees and ankles from touching each other Ensure you sit on a chair that fits you - feet should be flat on the floor, with knees at right angle and lower back should reach the back of the chair comfortably REMEMBER: S SKIN INSPECTION if you can t see, use a mirror or ask someone else to look S SURFACE think about the length of time spent on the bed or chair K-KEEP MOVING is assistance needed to reposition? I INCONTINENCE keep skin clean and dry. Consider the use of continence products N NUTRITION eating a well-balanced diet and keeping well hydrated is very important to keep your skin in good condition Early Signs of a Pressure Ulcer Redness Discomfort or pain Bluish/purplish patches Areas of cool or hot skin Blisters or skin damage Patches of hard skin Report any skin changes immediately to a healthcare professional who can advise on pressure area care Leaflet Ref: 11491 Published: 12/2015 Review: 31 st Dec 2018 Page 4
Comments, compliments or complaints We welcome any suggestions you have about the quality of our care and our services. Contact us: Freephone: 0800 1613997 Phone: 01625 661449 Textphone: 01625 663723 Customer Care, Reception, Macclesfield District General Hospital, Victoria Road, SK10 3BL For large print, audio, Braille version or translation, contact Communications and Engagement on 0800 195 4194. East Cheshire NHS Trust operates a smoke-free policy (including e-cigarettes) For advice on stopping smoking please contact the KICKSTART Stop Smoking service on 0800 085 8818. East Cheshire NHS Trust does not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, bullying or abuse and is committed to ensuring that patients, staff and the public are treated fairly, with dignity and respect. If you have any comments about how we can improve our services please inform a member of staff in the department or complete a comment card available throughout the hospital. Macclesfield District General Hospital, Victoria Rd, Macclesfield SK10 3BL Leaflet Ref: 11491 Published: 12/2015 Review: 31 st Dec 2018 Page 5