Pressure Sores are a serious risk to Residents safety.   They develop in response to prolonged pressure that reduces blood flow and thus cannot keep the cells healthy and therefore start to die and breakdown.   This usually leads to infection which is very hard to treat and can become extremely painful.

The most common points for pressure sores are when there is a boney point close to the skin which is on a weight bearing surface.  These are:

• Backs of heels
• Buttom (ischeal tuberosity & sacrum)
• Hips (greater trochanter)
• Shoulder Blade

The risk factors for developing Pressure Sores are:

• Ability to respond to pressure related discomfort (verbal & physcial)
• Degree to which the skin is exposed to moisture
• Degree to which the skin is exposed to friction or shearing forces (during transfers)
• Degree of Physical Activity
• Ability to change their Body position
• History of Pressure Sores
• History of Circulatory or Skin Conditions
• Ability to consume adequote nutrition
• Excessive bodyweight

The Treatments for Pressure Sores

• Pressure Sure Risk Assessment on Admission or when a risk is Identified
• Pressure Reducing Mattress (cushion or air cycling)
• Pressure Reducing Chair Cushion (air/foam)
• Regular changes of position
• Medicated creams to reduce moisture on skin
• Clothing and positioning to reduce moisture
• Foam Wedges or Pillows to keep heels off the bed
• Sheepskin heel protectors
• Tub or Princess Chair to Spread Pressure