Pressure ulcers, or bedsores, are sores or irritation on the skin that occur due to prolonged pressure, usually involving long periods of sitting or lying. Pressure ulcers can develop quickly and create an entryway for bacteria, and they are often difficult to heal. Treatment of these ulcers depends upon the stage of the ulcer.
Staging
Pressure ulcers are categorized into four stages. A Stage 1 ulcer often appears as a reddened area on the skin that does not turn white when pressed. This is an indication that pressure ulcers are beginning to develop. Stage 2 pressure ulcers have blisters or open sores, and the area surrounding the sores is red and irritated. When a pressure ulcer reaches Stage 3, the skin breakdown is deep, often with a craterlike appearance, according to the National Institutes of Health. A Stage 4 ulcer is deep enough to damage muscle, bone, tendons and joints.
Treatments
Treating a Stage 1 pressure ulcer involves changing positions often. People with a Stage 1 pressure ulcer should reposition approximately every 15 minutes. It's helpful to create a schedule of turning in order to keep track. People at risk for developing pressure ulcers can place cushions or special pads under bony prominences such as heels, elbows, shoulder blades and the lower back.
Stage 1 and 2 pressure ulcers require cleansing with mild soap and water. Open sores should be treated with a saline solution to help avoid infection. People with pressure ulcers should avoid cleansing with antiseptics, iodine or hydrogen peroxide, according to MayoClinic.com. Stage 3 and 4 wounds require treatments by a physician or a wound-care nurse. Physicians need to remove damaged tissue and apply special dressings. In some cases, patients may need to take oral antibiotics if infection has occurred.
Risk Factors
People who are wheelchair-bound or bedridden are at great risk for developing pressure ulcers. People who have compromised circulatory systems from vascular disease or diabetes are also at risk because of improper blood flow. Patients who have urinary or bowel incontinence can develop bedsores, since urine and stool cause skin breakdown if left against the skin for extended periods, notes the National Institutes of Health.
Complications
Open wounds can create a gateway for infection. People in nursing homes and hospitals have an increased risk for developing a type of staph infection called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. This often requires long-term antibiotic use. Other complications can include systemic infection and an infection in the bone.
Prevention
Anyone who is immobile, bedridden or has a compromised circulatory system should be checked for pressure ulcers daily. The skin should be examined for reddened areas, blisters, sores or craters. Using pillows, sheepskin, foam padding or powders can help prevent pressure sores. Maintaining a healthy diet and drinking eight to 10 glasses of water a day can also help.
