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BedSore Care In Bedridden Patients
Bed sore also known as Pressure Sore or Decubitus Ulcers are skin lesions due to pressure on the skin for a prolonged period of time which if spread to deeper tissues can become life-threatening. Patients bedridden for a long time in their homes need to be checked for any such lesions.
Occurrence-
Bed sore occur in people who have prolonged bed rest due to some illness or accidental injuries such as –
- Spinal injuries which lead to paraplegia, quadriplegia.
- Head injuries leading to unconsciousness.
The most prone areas for developing pressure sore are the bony prominences such as-
- Sacrum or the tail bone
- Back of head or the occiput
- Spine, shoulder blades, elbows
- Hips, behind the knees, heels and ankles.
Poor circulation due to pressure on these sites mainly leads to tissue damage resulting in bedsores.
Bed sores can heal with early treatment and can be prevented with proper care.
Symptoms
Identifying a bed sore and its symptoms according to its stages is also important.
Colour and Temperature Changes-
In the initial stage, skin may feel warm and gets darkened ranging from pinkish red to bluish and purple which feels itchy and develops in painful sore or blister.
Skin Changes-
An open sore having tissue damage deeper to the skin with discharging pus or fluid may be present.
Infection-
In an infected wound change in colour of skin and loss of sensation at that site along with discharge and blackened tissue can be seen. In severe cases even the bones may be visible.
Preventing Bed Sores
Following are some ways in which bed sores can be prevented when the patient is bedridden for a long time:-
Shifting Weight and Repositioning-
It can be done anywhere between 15 minutes to 2 hours by the caretaker or a Certified Home Health Aide. A Home Health Aide helps the severely ill patient through everyday tasks.
Strengthening the Upper Limbs-
Light upper limb exercises which build muscle strength should be done home so the patient is able to lift themselves up and shift weights.
A physiotherapist can help achieve the muscle strength required for self ambulatory activities on the bed and wheelchair. You can always have Private PT Sessions in your home to make the patient independent with their daily activities.
Exercising in bed helps maintain proper circulation which prevents bed sore in the first place.
Skin Care-
Skin should be kept clean and dry always. Using a mild cleanser for keeping the skin clean and pat drying. Antimicrobial powder can also be applied to keep the areas prone to pressure sores dry.
Protecting the skin against any friction and wear and tear by irritation through bedding and clothing. Clothing should be changed frequently if needed.
Inspecting the skin daily for any signs of bed sores.
Relieving Pressure -
Using foam mattresses and cushions can help relieve pressure from the susceptible areas. Special types of mattresses such as air mattresses which maintain constant air can also be used.
Maintaining Nutrition and Fluid Consumption-
Maintaining overall health by having essential nutrients and plenty of water is always necessary.
Treating Mild Bed Sores
Along with all the care mentioned for prevention of bedsores, treatment options which are available for mild cases of bed sores are:-
Cleaning the Wounds
Gently washing the wounds with mild soap and water. Open sores should be cleaned and changing of dressings should be done frequently.
Frequent Dressing-
Antimicrobial agents should be used along with dressing which protects the wound from further infection and assists in healing.
Managing Incontinence-
Using pads and cleansing the areas so that the skin doesn’t remain wet for longer duration which could be susceptible to infections.
Medications-
Antibiotics might be prescribed by the doctor for skin lesions or infections deeper to the bone.
Antibacterial creams can be applied on damaged skin for further protection from infection.
Surgical Options-
Removing dead tissue - Using high pressure water jets by healthcare professionals or surgical removal by tools help heal the sore.
At FaithCare, We are your trusted partner in delicate times providing Home Healthcare Services with the help of trained and Certified Caregivers giving their heart to services including Respite Care, Specialized Care, Hourly Homecare, Hospital To Home Care, Daily Home Care and Multiple Therapies. A better treatment at home with round the clock care for the bedridden patients has resulted in Satisfaction and early discharge to get them back to their Healthy Routine and Normal life.
Connect with us to get the best of Home Healthcare Services in New Jersey.
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