Pressure sores are caused by prolonged pressure on the skin and tissues, which reduces blood flow, damages tissues and opens up wounds, especially in patients who have to lie down or sit for long periods without moving, such as bedridden patients or those with mobility problems.
Causes of Pressure Ulcers Pressure ulcers are caused by a number of factors, including:
- Pressure: When the body is pressed on the same spot for a long time, blood cannot circulate to nourish the skin cells sufficiently, which is a major cause of pressure sores of various levels.
- Friction Pressure sores are caused by friction between the skin and a surface, such as a mattress or clothing, which causes the skin to abrase and develop pressure sores .
- Shear forces occur when the body moves or shifts back and forth, causing the underlying tissue to be pulled and damaged, which can lead to the development of infected pressure sores.
- Moisture: Skin that is moist from sweat, urine or feces can cause infection and increase the risk of pressure sores, which are more difficult to treat.
How many levels of pressure sores are there? Learn about the 6 levels of pressure sores.
There are 6 levels of pressure sores , classified by severity, from mild to severe, with tissue death and bone damage. Understanding each level of pressure sores will help caregivers provide appropriate treatment and เว็บพนันออนไลน์ UFABET สมัครง่าย โปรโมชั่นมากมาย choose pressure sore prevention equipment to reduce the risk of new pressure sores.
Stage 1: Early pressure sore
- The skin is red, but there are no open wounds.
- There may be swelling and pain when pressed.
- Pressure ulcer care at this level can prevent the spread of pressure ulcers by changing positions frequently and using pressure ulcer prevention devices.
Grade 2: Pressure sores with skin peeling
- The skin begins to peel or blisters form that look like abrasions.
- There is an opening in the upper skin layer, making it susceptible to infection.
- Pressure sores should be treated by keeping the wound clean and avoiding further pressure.
Stage 3: Pressure sores that reach deep into the fat layer
- The wound starts to go deep into the subcutaneous fat layer.
- There may be pus or fluid draining from the pressure sore.
- Antibiotics and pressure sore prevention equipment are required to reduce the risk of pressure sore infection.
Stage 4: Pressure sores that reach deep into the muscle or bone.
- The wound is so deep that you can see the muscle or bone.
- There is severe inflammation and possible tissue necrosis.
- Pressure sores must be treated by a specialist and may require surgery.
Grade 5: Pressure sores with severe tissue destruction.
- There is a large area of dead flesh that is dark black in color.
- Pressure sores are severe and can lead to serious infections.
- Pressure sores are treated by surgically removing dead tissue.
Level 6: Severely infected pressure sores
- There is severe inflammation, pus, and a foul odor.
- Pressure sores may become infected and enter the bloodstream.
- Urgent treatment with antibiotics and surgery is required.
6 Ways to Care for Pressure Sores That Many People May Overlook
Pressure sores are caused by lying or sitting in the same position for a long time without changing positions. They are common in bedridden patients and people with limited body movement. If they do not receive proper care, pressure sores can become infected and spread to the point of affecting quality of life. Understanding how to properly care for pressure sores, including the use of pressure-relieving devices, will help prevent complications and speed wound healing.
How to properly care for pressure sores
1. Use protective equipment and care for pressure sores.
- Anti-Decubitus Mattress : An air mattress or specially designed mattress that evenly distributes body weight, reduces pressure points, and increases ventilation to reduce the risk of infection and prevent infected pressure sores.
- Pillows and seat cushions : Reduce friction and pressure on the hips and buttocks. Suitable for those who have to sit for long periods of time.
- Anti-friction pads : Prevent friction between the skin and hard surfaces, which is one of the causes of pressure sores due to continuous friction and pressure.
- Special wound dressings : Used to treat and prevent pressure sores once they have formed, by helping to retain moisture and reduce infection.
2. Clean the wound regularly.
- Clean the pressure sore with saline or an antiseptic solution recommended by your doctor.
- Change the dressing daily to reduce the accumulation of germs.
- Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can damage the tissue.
3. Use medication to treat pressure sores.
- Apply antibiotics to reduce the risk of pressure sore infection.
- If the wound is deep or inflamed, see a doctor for appropriate treatment.
4. Reduce pressure on the wound area.
- Change the patient’s position every 2 hours to prevent pressure sores of various levels.
- Use a cushion or air mattress to relieve pressure.
5. Take care of your skin hygiene.
- Always keep your body clean and dry.
- Use a moisturizing cream or lotion to prevent dryness and cracking.
6. Good nutrition helps wounds heal faster.
- Eat foods high in protein, such as fish, eggs, and nuts.
- Take vitamin C and zinc to help speed up pressure sore healing.
- Drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated.
Pressure sore prevention equipment reduces the risk of pressure sore infection.
The use of pressure sore prevention equipment is an important way to reduce pressure and prevent pressure sores from developing , especially in patients with limited mobility or bedridden patients. Choosing the right equipment will help distribute body weight and reduce pressure in one area, which helps improve blood circulation and reduces the chances of pressure sores from continuous pressure.