Pressure Ulcers Are you, or someone you care for, at risk? Please help yourself to information today and contact your healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Avoiding pressure ulcers… think S.S.K.I.N Look after your SSKIN S: Surface - What are you sitting or lying on? Is your chair suitable for your needs? Speak to your carer or a health care professional if you think your cushion or mattress needs checking. S: Skin - Look for signs of damage. Check your skin at least once a day. Look for pink, redness or unusual marks on your skin such as blisters, dry patches or breaks. Do not continue to lie on skin that is more red or darker than usual. If you are diabetic check your feet daily. A mirror may help you do this. Rubbing or massaging skin at risk of damage is not advisable. K: Keep moving - Repositioning at least every two hours is recommended. Changing your position regularly helps keep blood flowing. Even a small change in position will help. I: Incontinence problems - Wash your skin using warm water or pH neutral skin cleansers. Do no use heavily perfumed soap or talcum powder.  These can soak up the skin’s natural oils leading to vulnerable dry areas. If you suffer from bladder or bowel problems, please inform your health care team. N: Nutrition - Make sure you eat a healthy balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. Drink plenty of fluids. Speak to your health care professional for further dietary advice.

Where do pressure ulcers commonly appear?