Geriatric Syndromes. Pressure Sores

Pressure ulcers are chronic wounds in the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on a hard surface, not necessarily strong, and independent of the position. To produce require microcirculation disorders in body support zones situated on a hard surface. For this reason, the areas of bony prominences are the most common sites for the appearance of these ulcers.

According to numerous studies, 95% of these pressure ulcers could be avoided and, therefore, prevention is a priority. This prevention is based on reducing the risk factors.

Then, I'm going to expose risk areas according to the position of the patient and how they can prevent pressure ulcers:

 

• Postural changes every 2-3 hours in bedridden patients and each hour in the sitting position.
• Avoid dragging.
• Prominences avoid direct contact with each other.
• Skin and mucous clean and dry. Use little irritating soaps.
• Wash with warm water, rinse and dry without friction.
• Don't use alcohol.
• Use moisturizers ensuring total absorption.
• Dressing natural fabric clothing.
• Use absorbent incontinence.
• Good nutritional support.

 

 

Bibliography:

• Scientific Electronic Library Online - SciELO. [Website *]. [Revised 10/05/2013, updated 6/05/2013]. Available at: http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?pid=S1134-928X2008000200006&script=sci_arttext
• National Library of Medicine U.S. - MedlinePlus. [Website *]. [Revised 10/05/2013, updated 7/05/2013]. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/spanish/pressuresores.html