Decubitus ulcer Pressure sore Bedsore
Decubitus ulcer or also known as Bedsore or pressure sore , is a skin and tissue injury caused by impaired blood supply and tissue nutrition. It is caused by prolonged pressure over bony prominences due to lying too long in the same position. The parts of the body most likely to be affected are the pressure areas: the bone at the lower end of the spine (the sacrum), the buttocks, and the heels. The shoulder blades and elbows may also develop these sores. The area first becomes slightly red with cracked skin, which turns dark blue before ulcerating as dead tissues disintegrate. Pressure ulcer prevention Patients who cannot move themselves must be moved every few hours. Patients must not sit in bed or in a chair for long periods. The patient should be lifted, not slid, when moved. The skin is to be kept clean and dry. Bedclothes must be kept clean, dry, and free from creases. Additional protection can be given to the pressure areas by using foam pads and real or artificial sheepskin. A...