As caregivers, the best tool we have is prevention. It is far easier to prevent a pressure injury than to heal one.
How to Prevent Pressure Injuries:
- Repositioning is Key: The golden rule is to change your loved one’s position at least every two hours in bed, or every hour when sitting in a chair. This relieves pressure from “bony” areas like the tailbone, hips, and heels.
- Keep Skin Clean and Dry: Gently clean the skin with mild soap and water, and pat dry. Avoid vigorous rubbing. Use barrier creams if incontinence is an issue.
- Inspect Skin Daily: Look for early warning signs, especially on those bony areas. The first sign is often a red, purple, or dark spot that does not turn white when you press on it. It may also feel warm or firm.
- Optimize Nutrition: The body needs protein, calories, and vitamins to keep skin healthy. We provide nutrition and lifestyle counseling to help support skin integrity from the inside out.
What to Do if You Find One: If you see a warning sign or a break in the skin, do not wait. It is not a sign of failure; it is a sign that a medical complication has occurred and requires immediate professional help.
At the Wound & Ulcer Center of Florida, we are experts in pressure injury management at all stages. We provide advanced dressings, debridement, and education to heal the wound and prevent future ones. You are not alone in this—contact our team today for support.