Bedsore is a term similar to pressure sore or decubitus ulcer. It indicates a sore that is acquired from lying in bed and is frequently acquired when the patient does not turn or is not turned every two hours. Lying in urine, feces or sweat can also cause a bedsore. These wounds can be difficult to treat once the skin is broken. Decubitus ulcers are classified according to stage, with stage I being a reddened area and stage IV extending into muscle and bone. Merck Manual estimates that 1.3 to 3 million Americans have pressure sores.
Enhanced Nutrition
The patient with a bedsore needs extra calories and protein to meet her needs. She may also be prescribed a multi-vitamin and extra vitamin C and zinc. Proper nutrition is imperative for wound healing.
No Pressure to the Area
Ideally, all pressure will be kept off the bedsore. If the patient has multiple bedsores, this may be impossible. Pressure on the area should be severely limited so that healing can occur.
Dressings
Stage II, III and IV decubitus ulcers are treated with various dressings. The site is cleansed with water or salt water solution at the beginning of each dressing change. A special dressing, and possibly medication, is applied and left in place. The type of dressing dictates the change schedule, with some treatments being done three times a day, while others are performed once every few days. The size and deepness of the bedsore is frequently measured so that it can be determined if the wound is healing. A physician must diagnose a bedsore and order the appropriate treatment as the wrong dressing can significantly worsen the wound.
Debridement
Stage III or IV decubitus ulcers may contain dead or damaged tissue that must be removed by a health care provider. This can happen surgically, with a scalpel, or it may be done with enzymes or other devices.
Whirlpool
Water therapy may be used to clean the wound and aid in healing, according to Mayo Clinic. It usually feels good to the patient and may improve circulation to the wound.
Pain Medicine
Many pressure sores are painful and the patient may require routine pain medicine. Alternatively, pain medicine may be given prior to dressing changes or moving the patient.
Antibiotics
An infection in a bedsore can quickly become dangerous. These infections may be treated with ointment or cream at the site. They may also require oral antibiotics or antibiotics given as an infusion into the vein.
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