 Definition – areas of the skin that become broken and painful caused by continuous pressure.  Also called:  Pressure Sores  Bed Sores

1. Pressure 2. Friction 3. Lack of Cleanliness – sweat, urine, feces, wound discharge, soap left on skin

Pressure results from: 4. Obesity 5. Casts / Splints 6. Bandages 7. Wrinkles in sheets 8. Staying in one position too long 9. Shearing force – skin rubbing on sheets

Pressure causes: Decrease in circulation Increase in heat & moisture  Heat  Redness (Erythema)  Tenderness  Discomfort / Burning  Broken skin

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1. Shoulders 2. Elbows 3. Hips 4. Sacrum 5. Heels 6. Ankles 7. Toes 8. Ears 9. Breasts

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1. Assure clean, wrinkle-free linen 2. Encourage activity 3. Turn bed-bound patients every 2 hours 4. Massage around reddened areas 5. Provide back rubs 6. Keep skin clean and dry 7. Assess skin – report changes promptly 8. Limit time on bedpan

Egg-crate foam Sheepskin Alternating pressure air bed Flotation mattress Turning bed

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1. Dryness, less elastic skin (decreased oil gland function/soap left on skin) 2. Skin less nourished - thin (decreased circulation) 3. Bed Bound – Immobility - Skin pressure - Rubbing on sheets - Sheets soiled / wrinkled

Relieve pressure on reddened area Gentle massage around area – not directly on it Special dressings: (Opsite / Transderm) Lights to wound Surgery if extensive ulcer