Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are a common health problem that affect patients who are mostly immobile for extended periods. These sores develop when the skin and soft tissues are damaged due to prolonged pressure or friction against a firm surface. Bedsores can occur on any part of the body, but they are more common on bony areas such as the hips, heels, and tailbone.

Bedsores can be caused by a variety of factors including immobility, inadequate nutrition, dehydration, poor hygiene, and friction from rubbing against clothes or bedding. People who are confined to a bed or wheelchair are particularly vulnerable to pressure ulcers as they are unable to move and change positions frequently.

Symptoms of pressure ulcers include redness, swelling, pain, and tenderness in the affected area. In severe cases, pressure ulcers may lead to deeper tissue damage and infection, which can cause abscess formation and further complications.

Prevention is the best approach to treating bedsores. Proper hygiene, good nutrition, and regular repositioning of the patient can help prevent pressure ulcers. Patients should be turned and repositioned at least every two hours to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas. It’s very important to nursing homes to proactive in the prevention of pressure ulcers.

Treatment of pressure ulcers depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases can be treated with topical creams and dressings to help speed up healing. More severe cases may require surgery to remove damaged tissue and prevent further infection. In some cases, patients may require a skin graft to promote healing.

If you or your loved one have suffered a pressure ulcer that you feel was caused by the lack of care at nursing home or hospital, please reach out to us to see if we can help.