Pressure Care

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Pressure Ulcers affect up to 20% of patients in Nursing and Residential Care. Pressure care management offers a range of products to reduce pressure sore development as well as helping the healing process. We stock a great range of targeted cushioning, recovery and pressure sore prevention products such as leg cushions, heel protectors and wheelchair cushions.

Pressure care, also known as pressure ulcer prevention or pressure sore management, is a critical aspect of healthcare, particularly in medical environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings. Pressure care involves a range of strategies and interventions designed to prevent and manage pressure ulcers, which are also known as pressure sores or bedsores.

Pressure ulcers are localized injuries to the skin and underlying tissue, primarily caused by prolonged pressure or friction on specific areas of the body. These areas are often bony prominences where the skin and underlying tissue can become damaged due to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply. Pressure ulcers can range from mild reddening of the skin (Stage 1) to deep wounds affecting muscle and bone (Stage 4).

Key aspects of pressure care in a medical environment include:

Assessment and Risk Assessment: Healthcare professionals assess patients to identify individuals at risk of developing pressure ulcers. Risk factors include immobility, reduced sensation, poor nutrition, and incontinence. Various risk assessment scales help healthcare providers determine a patient's risk level.

Repositioning and Turning: Patients who are immobile or bedridden are repositioned regularly to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas. The frequency and method of turning or repositioning depend on the patient's risk level and medical condition.

Support Surfaces: Specialized support surfaces, such as pressure-relieving mattresses and cushions, can help distribute pressure more evenly, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers.

Skin Care: Proper skin care, including keeping the skin clean and moisturized, is essential. Patients at risk of pressure ulcers should have their skin inspected regularly for signs of damage.

Nutrition and Hydration: Adequate nutrition and hydration play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. Malnourished or dehydrated patients are at higher risk of developing pressure ulcers.

Education: Patients and caregivers should receive education on pressure ulcer prevention and early detection. This includes recognizing warning signs, such as redness, warmth, or changes in skin texture.

Incontinence Management: Proper management of urinary and fecal incontinence is crucial, as prolonged exposure to moisture can contribute to pressure ulcer development.

Medical Interventions: In some cases, advanced pressure ulcers may require medical interventions, including wound cleaning, debridement (removal of dead tissue), infection control, and, in severe cases, surgical procedures.

Mobility and Rehabilitation: Encouraging and facilitating mobility and rehabilitation for patients who are capable of movement is important for maintaining skin health and preventing pressure ulcers.

Pressure care is a collaborative effort involving nurses, doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals. It aims to prevent the development of pressure ulcers in at-risk patients and provide appropriate care and treatment for those who already have pressure ulcers to promote healing and prevent complications.

The goal of pressure care is to enhance patient comfort, maintain skin integrity, and improve overall quality of life for individuals receiving medical care, particularly those who are immobile or have limited mobility.

How do you care for the pressure area of a patient?

Caring for the pressure area of a patient, especially if they have or are at risk of developing pressure ulcers (also known as pressure sores or bedsores), involves a systematic approach to prevent skin breakdown and promote healing. Here are the key steps in caring for a patient's pressure area:

Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of the patient's skin, paying close attention to areas at risk of pressure ulcers, such as the heels, sacrum (lower back), hips, elbows, and shoulders. Use a validated pressure ulcer risk assessment scale to determine the patient's risk level. Document the patient's skin condition, including any existing pressure ulcers, skin changes (e.g., redness, blisters, discoloration), and moisture-related issues (e.g., incontinence).

Repositioning and Turning: For bedridden or immobile patients, develop a turning and repositioning schedule based on their risk level and individual needs. This may involve turning the patient every 2 to 4 hours. Use proper lifting and positioning techniques to avoid friction and shear forces during transfers and repositioning. Elevate the heels slightly off the bed or use heel protectors to reduce pressure on this vulnerable area.

Support Surfaces: Ensure the patient is on an appropriate support surface, such as a pressure-relieving mattress or cushion. These surfaces distribute pressure more evenly and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. Adjust the support surface based on the patient's condition and risk factors.

Skin Care: Keep the skin clean and dry. Use mild, pH-balanced cleansers and pat the skin gently to avoid friction. Apply moisturizing creams or barrier creams to maintain skin hydration and integrity. Avoid using hot water, harsh soaps, and vigorous scrubbing, as these can damage the skin.

Nutrition and Hydration: Ensure the patient receives adequate nutrition and hydration to support skin health and tissue repair. Consult a registered dietitian if malnutrition is a concern.

Pressure Redistribution Devices: Utilize pressure redistribution devices like heel protectors, elbow protectors, and donut cushions, as appropriate, to reduce pressure on specific areas.

Incontinence Management: Implement a comprehensive incontinence management plan, including the use of absorbent products, regular changes, and skin protection. Use moisture-barrier creams or ointments to protect the skin from the harmful effects of moisture.

Education: Educate the patient and their caregivers about the importance of pressure ulcer prevention, skin care, and early detection. Teach them to recognize signs of pressure ulcers and report any changes promptly.

Monitoring and Documentation: Regularly assess and document the patient's skin condition, any changes, and the effectiveness of prevention measures. Document interventions and outcomes in the patient's medical record.

Medical Interventions: If pressure ulcers develop, follow the healthcare facility's protocols for wound care, which may include wound cleaning, debridement, infection control, and the use of appropriate dressings. Consult wound care specialists or healthcare professionals as needed for advanced wound management.

Mobility and Rehabilitation: Encourage and facilitate mobility and rehabilitation for patients who are capable of movement. Activity promotes circulation and helps prevent pressure ulcers.

Pain Management: Provide pain relief as necessary, as pressure ulcers can be painful. Addressing pain can improve the patient's comfort and overall well-being.

Caring for a patient's pressure area is a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, nursing staff, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and dietitians. Regular communication and teamwork are essential to effectively prevent and manage pressure ulcers and ensure the patient's optimal comfort and recovery.