MNA Mosby’s Long Term Care Assistant Chapter 31 Pressure Ulcers

Pressure Ulcers Decubitus Ulcer Death of tissue due to lack of O2 Usually occurs over a bony prominence Causes: Pressure, friction, shearing Poor circulation Moisture Irritation from urine and feces

Bony Prominences

Pressure Ulcers Persons at Risk Confined to bed or chair Requires help to move Incontinent Poor nutrition (protein needed for tissue repair) Altered mental status Decrease sensation Poor circulation Age Obese or emaciated Anemic

Pressure Ulcers Signs Pale skin Reddened area Blisters Pain, burning, tingling Skin or tissue loss

Pressure Ulcers Stage 1 – red, skin does not return to normal when pressure is relieved Stage 2 – skin cracks, blisters or peels Stage 3 – skin is gone. Underlying tissue is exposed. drainage Stage 4 – muscle and bone exposed

Pressure Ulcers Prevention and Treatment Much easier to prevent then treat Cleanliness Turn and position Q2h Pillows for padding Use lift sheets

Pressure Ulcers Prevention and Treatment Lotion and moisturizers Dry, wrinkle free linens NEVER rub or massage red areas Protective devices Report and record

Pressure Ulcers Prevention and Treatment                                                             

Remember…… Older persons require special skin care. Protein is an essential nutrient for skin repair Follow Standard Precautions

Review A pressure ulcer is the same as a decubitus ulcer ? True False

Bony prominence Review Pressure ulcers usually occur over a _______________. Bony prominence

Review Protein is the most important nutrient for wound healing. True or False

Review Cracked and peeling skin is an early sign of decubitus ulcers True or False

Review Severely underweight? A. obesity anemia paralysis emaciation

Review Person’s at risk for ulcers are repositioned QID. True or False

Review BID QS PRN STAT BR Twice a day Every shift As needed immediately bedrest

Questions??