How Do You Treat Pressure Sores? A Comprehensive Guide

Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. They commonly develop on areas of the body that cover bony prominences, such as the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone. Effective treatment is crucial to prevent complications and promote healing.

Understanding Pressure Sores

Pressure sores develop when sustained pressure cuts off circulation to vulnerable parts of the body, leading to tissue damage. They are categorised into four stages:

● Stage 1: Reddened skin that doesn’t blanch when pressed.
● Stage 2: Partial-thickness skin loss, presenting as an open sore or blister.
● Stage 3: Full-thickness skin loss, exposing fat tissue.
● Stage 4: Extensive damage involving muscle, bone, or supporting structures.

Key Principles of Treatment

Relieve Pressure

● Repositioning: Regularly changing positions helps alleviate pressure. For individuals in wheelchairs, shifting weight every 15 minutes is recommended; bedridden individuals should be repositioned at least every 2 hours.
● Support Surfaces: Utilising specialised mattresses and cushions designed to redistribute pressure is essential. Dan Medica South offers a range of
pressure-relieving products, including the Treat-Eezi Full-Length Mattress Overlay, which provides effective pressure redistribution for individuals at very high risk of developing pressure sores.

Wound Care

● Cleaning: Gently clean the sore with saline solution during each dressing change to remove dead tissue and reduce infection risk.● Dressings: Apply appropriate dressings to maintain a moist healing environment. Choices depend on the wound’s condition and may include hydrocolloid, foam, or alginate dressings.

Infection Control

● Monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus. If infection is suspected, consult a healthcare provider promptly.
● Antibiotics may be prescribed for infected sores, but are not routinely used for uninfected pressure ulcers.

Pain Management

● Administer appropriate pain relief measures, which may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other analgesics, as advised by a healthcare professional.

Nutrition and Hydration

● Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins (especially A and C), and minerals like zinc to support skin health and healing.
● Ensure adequate fluid intake to keep the skin hydrated and resilient.

Surgical Intervention

● In severe cases (Stage 3 or 4), surgical procedures such as debridement (removal of dead tissue) or reconstructive surgery may be necessary to promote healing.

Preventive Measures

• Prevention is key in managing pressure sores:
  ● Regular Movement: Encourage frequent repositioning to alleviate pressure.
  ● Skin Inspection: Conduct daily checks for early signs of pressure damage.
  ● Skin Care: Keep the skin clean and moisturised; manage incontinence promptly to prevent skin breakdown. Use of Support Surfaces: Implement pressure-relieving mattresses and cushions to distribute weight evenly. Our mattress overlays, including the Seat Pad and Heel Rest, offer effective solutions for pressure redistribution and prevention.

Support Surfaces

Utilising specialised mattresses and cushions designed to redistribute pressure is essential. Dan Medica South offers a trusted range of pressure-relieving products tailored to the needs of those at risk of developing pressure sores. Their Treat Eezi product range includes:
● Treat-Eezi Full-Length Mattress Overlay – Ideal for individuals at very high risk, this overlay helps distribute pressure evenly across the body and can be used in both clinical and home settings.
● Treat-Eezi Seat Pad – Designed for wheelchair users or anyone seated for extended periods, this pad offers targeted pressure relief.
● Treat-Eezi Heel Pad – A lightweight and effective solution for protecting vulnerable heels from pressure-related damage.
These products are easy to use, cost-effective, and require minimal maintenance—making them a practical choice for both caregivers and patients.

Conclusion

Treating pressure sores involves a multifaceted approach focusing on pressure relief, wound care, infection control, pain management, and nutritional support. Early intervention and consistent preventive measures are vital to promote healing and prevent recurrence. We are committed to providing high-quality pressure-relieving solutions through our Treat Eezi range—innovative products that offer comfort, support, and peace of mind for individuals and caregivers alike.