How to prevent bed sores in your bedridden loved ones

Preventing bed sores (pressure ulcers) is critical for patients with limited mobility in a ward or in home Here are the key steps nurses can follow:

1. Regular Repositioning: Reposition the patient every 1-2 hours to relieve pressure on bony areas (e.g., heels, sacrum, hips). Use a repositioning schedule to ensure consistency.
2. Skin Inspection: Check the skin daily for signs of redness, breakdown, or irritation, especially on high-risk areas like heels, elbows, hips, and the sacrum.
3. Pressure-relieving Devices: Use specialized mattresses, cushions, or heel protectors to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas.
4. Skin Care: Keep the skin clean and dry. Use mild cleansers and apply moisture barrier creams to prevent skin irritation, especially for incontinent patients.
5. Nutrition and Hydration: Ensure the patient has adequate nutrition and hydration. A well-balanced diet with enough protein helps in maintaining skin integrity and promotes healing.
6. Mobility Assistance: Encourage movement and, if possible, involve physiotherapy to assist with mobilization to enhance circulation.
7. Avoid Friction and Shear: Use lifting devices or draw sheets when moving the patient to avoid dragging the skin, which can cause tissue damage.
8. Proper Bedding and Clothing: Ensure that the bedding is smooth, clean, and wrinkle-free. Use breathable and soft clothing that reduces friction against the skin.
9. Patient Education: Educate the patient (if possible) and their family on the importance of repositioning and self-care if they can move independently.

By following these steps, ONE can significantly reduce the risk of pressure ulcers in bedridden LOVED ONES .