Pressure Injury (Bed Sore)
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What is a Pressure Injury?
A pressure injury, commonly known as a bedsore, decubitus ulcer, or pressure ulcer, is a condition where tissue damage and sores develop due to the combined effects of pressure, friction, and moisture, especially over bony areas of the body. -
Causes of Pressure Ulcers
Continuous pressure, friction, shear, moisture, inadequate care, irregular nutrition, extreme thinness, obesity, anemia, diabetes and other chronic systemic diseases, urinary or fecal incontinence, deficiencies in protein, vitamin C, and zinc, impaired normal blood or lymphatic circulation, and whether the patient is conscious or unconscious can all contribute to the development of pressure ulcers. -
How Do Pressure Ulcers Form?
In immobile patients, such as those dependent on a bed or wheelchair due to neurological conditions like paralysis, dementia, or Alzheimer’s, continuous pressure on certain areas disrupts capillary circulation. Blood flow decreases, tissues are deprived of nutrients, and subcutaneous cell death occurs, leading to the formation of pressure injuries. -
Prevention Measures
Ensuring mobility and exercise is important. Regularly repositioning the patient can reduce pressure on high-risk areas such as the hips and heels. Monitoring nutrition and addressing deficiencies is essential. Using protective support surfaces can reduce pressure and lower the risk of bedsores. The choice of these surfaces should be tailored to the patient’s condition and affordability.