Known as decubitus ulcers and pressure ulcers, bedsores are injuries to the skin and the underlying tissue due to prolonged pressure placed on the skin. They can develop over days or even hours. Bedsores often form on the skin covering the bony parts of the body like the hips, tailbone, elbows, heels, and ankles. Certain steps include turning and repositioning oneself regularly to prevent them.
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Bedsores are majorly caused by prolonged pressure against a part of the body that cuts off blood supply to the skin. When the skin and the tissues surrounding it lack these nutrients, they become more susceptible to damage, resulting in the formation of sores.
Friction also contributes to the development of sores. For a bedridden person, friction can occur when his or her skin rubs against the bedding or clothes. If the person has fragile skin, for example, due to old age, the friction will make the skin more prone to injury, particularly if it is moist as well.
Shear is also a contributor. It occurs when surfaces move in opposite directions. For example, when the head of the bed is elevated, a person may slide down the bed while the skin over the tailbone remains in the same position. This pulling in opposite directions constitutes sheer force.
Several factors increase the chances of bedsores developing.
People who are rendered immobile or are bedridden are at a higher risk of developing pressure sores. These people may not be able to change position or move by themselves when sitting in wheelchairs or lying in bed for various reasons, such as spinal cord injuries and poor health. Many cases of bedsores occur because of healthcare professionals and caregivers not turning or positioning patients correctly.
Healthcare professionals and caregivers must properly care for patients to help them avoid developing bedsores. When they become negligent in their duty, these sores could form and cause discomfort and complications, which could lead to a medical malpractice lawsuit. Bedsores can cause complications like cellulitis, cancer, sepsis, and bone or joint infections. Some of the complications can be fatal. According to some accounts, stage 4 bedsore life expectancy is just 50 days on average.
For individuals with mobility issues, the pressure that causes bedsores tends to occur in the areas lying over a bone and are not well padded with fat or muscle. These areas include heels, elbows, hips, shoulder blades, the spine, and tailbone.
Individuals with poor eating habits or who do not get enough nutrients in their daily diet may find it challenging to keep their skin healthy and prevent tissue breakdown.
People who cannot sense or communicate discomfort or pain are at increased risk of bedsores. They may not perceive the warning signs of them needing to change position. Conditions like neurological disorders and spinal cord injuries can lead to sensation loss.
Prolonged exposure to excessive moisture and skin irritants like feces and urine increases the risk of skin damage and contributes to the formation of bedsores. Often occurring due to neglectful incontinence care by healthcare workers.
Health issues like vascular disease and diabetes can restrict blood flow. Restriction can cause tissue destruction and an increased risk of bedsores.
Ways of preventing bedsores include:
Bedsores can lead to new illnesses or exacerbate existing ones. It is best to take every necessary step to prevent them or help them heal early if they develop.
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