Frequently Asked Questions On Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers may develop when skin tissues begin to die due to diminished oxygen supply to areas under prolonged pressure. Any condition that results in decreased mobility (i.e. old age or paralysis) or decreased circulation (i.e. diabetes) substantially increases the risk of developing a pressure ulcer. Patients may be unaware of the wounds, because they might be paralyzed, bed-bound, or elderly undergoing treatment for other diseases.

The risk of pressure ulcers increase in case of:

• Confinement to Bed or chair: Such a condition may place excess pressure in certain parts of the body
• Loss of bladder or bowel control: Increased moisture can heighten risk of pressure ulcer formation
• Loss of mental awareness: In this a person cannot shift weight independently to alleviate pressure
• Immobility: when a person cannot shift weight on their own, they are at a greater risk
• Poor nutrition: when a person is not able to maintain a nutritious diet, the skin can become more susceptible to injury and ulceration.

Complications of pressure sores include Infections like Cellulitis (a type of skin infection), Osteomyelitis (a type of bone infection), bacterial infection, Necrotizing fasciitis, Endocarditis (infection of the heart lining), Meningitis, Septic arthritis, Abscesses etc.

Pressure ulcers can be treated by following steps.

• Pressure Removal from wound and other areas at risk
• Application of a topical dressing to reduce infection and provide a moist environment that promotes growth of the and cellular migration
• Antibiotics to fight harmful bacteria that inhibit healing
• Mechanical debridement to remove the diseased, infected, or dead tissue that impairs healing 
• Physical therapy to improve blood flow, respiratory function, and mental awareness