Preventing bedsores in a bedridden person
bedsores · pressure sores · pressure ulcers · caring for a bedridden person · anti-bedsore mattress
Bedsores are skin wounds caused by long pressure when a person lies or sits without moving. It is easier to prevent them than to treat them.
When a person lies in bed or sits in a wheelchair for a long time and can barely change position alone.
⏱ Duration: ongoing: change position about every 2 hours and check the skin every day
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Mattress. An anti-bedsore (pressure-relief) mattress is usually advised. Ask your doctor or nurse which one suits.
- Schedule. Make a turning chart and mark every turn.
- Bed. Keep the sheet smooth, without wrinkles or crumbs.
- Supplies. Pillows and rolls under the knees and heels, and between the legs.
What to bring
- Pillows and rolls
- Skin wash and moisturizing cream
- Absorbent pads
- The turning chart
How it goes
- Change the person's position about every 2 hours: back, one side, the other side
- Place a pillow between the knees and behind the back when on the side
- Keep the heels off the bed, with a roll under the calves
- Check the skin every day on the tailbone, heels, shoulder blades, back of the head, and hips
- Wash the skin gently and pat dry, do not rub
- Change wet bedding and pads right away
What you'll feel
- Turning may be uncomfortable for the person, so move slowly and explain
- Early redness is easy to miss, so look carefully
Afterwards
- Make sure the person drinks and eats enough
- Do not massage reddened areas
- If possible, help them move on their own
- Tell your doctor about any new sore
Contact a doctor straight away if
- An open sore, blister, or black patch on the skin: see a doctor
- A wound with pus, a smell, and a fever: see a doctor urgently
Common questions
Does a rubber ring help?
It is usually not advised, since the ring itself presses on the skin. An anti-bedsore mattress and changing position are better.
Can I put iodine-type dye or alcohol on the redness?
No, alcohol dries the skin. Show the redness to a doctor or nurse.