Decubitus Ulcers What you will learn: Other names for decubitus ulcers Cause of decubitus ulcers People at risk for developing Areas mostly likely to develop Preventive measures Different stages Quiz : 40 points next week.

Decubitus ulcers also know as: 1. Pressure Ulcers 2. Dermal Ulcers 3. Bed sores Cause: Prolonged pressure on an area of the body that interferes with circulation.

Common in patients who are: ·Elderly ·Very thin ·Obese ·Incontinent- (unable to control bowel or bladder) ·Debilitated ·Poorly nourished ·Bedbound ·Impaired circulation

Common sites for decubitus ulcers: ·Elbows ·Heels ·Sacrum ·Coccyx ·Buttocks ·Shoulders ·Hips ·Ankles

Ways to prevent Decubitus ulcers: ·Frequent position changes ·Limit skin shearing ·Prompt incontinent care ·Pressure relief devices ·Ensure proper nutrition ·Ensure proper hydration ·Keep skin clean and dry ·Keep linens wrinkle free ·Inspect skin daily

4 Stages of Pressure Ulcers: 1. Stage I 2. Stage II 3. Stage III 4. Stage IV

Stage I: skin develops a redness or blue-gray discoloration Stage I: skin develops a redness or blue-gray discoloration. The skin in this stage is non-blanching Non-blanching: remains red when pressed Blanching: a reddish area when pressed on turns white or disappears then returns This stage is usually reversible if the area is detected promptly and the pressure if relieved, but does have then potential to worsen rapidly.

Example of a Stage I Pressure Ulcer

Stage II: the skin is reddened and there is a break in the skin Stage II: the skin is reddened and there is a break in the skin. May look like an abrasion, may be a blister or a shallow crater. The surrounding skin may also be red.

Example of a Stage II Pressure Ulcer

Stage III: All layers of the skin are destroyed and a deep crater forms.

Stage IV: The ulcer extends through the skin and subcutaneous tissue and may involve the muscle and bone. These patients are at great risk for infection. These ulcers may have Purulent drainage: containing pus

Example of a Stage IV Pressure Ulcer

Stage IV Pressure Ulcer

Stage IV Pressure Ulcer

Layers of the skin effected for each stage

Eschar: black necrotic tissue Necrosis: dead tissue

Kennedy Terminal Ulcer An decubitus ulcer that occurs quickly in the dying patients Usually occurs on the sacrum Starts off like a blistered area then quickly turns into a stage 3 or 4 decubitus ulcer They usually do not heal