The topic of pressure ulcers (bedsores) is high on the agenda in nursing homes. And that’s a good thing, because the risk among the elderly is particularly high. The fact that attention is paid to it, however, does not mean that effective solutions are put in place. And that is exactly what is needed, because pressure ulcers can be prevented and cured. Preventive means can be used to prevent the nasty bedsores. This blog takes a closer look at the situation. When do pressure sores occur? Why are older people at greater risk than younger people and what can care homes do about it? You’ll read the answer below!
When does pressure ulceration occur?
Pressure sores occur with prolonged pressure on a particular part of the body. Areas where the bone is relatively close to the skin are most susceptible to pressure sores. Pressure sores do not occur immediately. It depends, among other things, on the duration and intensity of the pressure.
The development of a bedsore
Beginning decubitus can be recognized by a red spot. The annoying thing about such a spot is that it does not disappear. The redness is permanent. If the pressure continues, eventually wounds will form. As a result of this pressure, the skin eventually gives way. This leads to a wound, but it does not stop there. The consequences can be great. Wounds have two main drawbacks.
- There is less blood flow (which also does not help recovery)
- The open bedsore is susceptible to external infections. Especially with frail elderly people in retirement homes, this is highly undesirable.
The risk among the elderly
Old people are more likely to suffer from pressure ulcers. This goes without saying: in general, older people move less than younger people. Also, medical situations are more likely to lead to bedridden people. Relatively speaking, there are fewer young people who, due to illness or another reason, (have to) sit or lie down a lot. This explains why in this article we focus on the places where many elderly people are found: care homes. If attention is paid to pressure ulcers in nursing homes, that in itself is a good thing. However, the solution requires more than just attention. Effective means must be employed for two reasons:
- Prevention – To combat pressure ulcers and contribute to recovery from occurred wounds.
- Curation – The prevention of bedsores.
Care homes would do well to focus on prevention and cure. Prevention and cure should be actively used to eliminate bedsores in care homes. Bos Medical International is an expert in this area. We have introduced various products to the market that can be used to combat bedsores.
What can be done about antidecubitus in nursing homes?
The good news is that in recent years many remedies have been developed to prevent bedsores. Special mattresses and pillows are two important tools against pressure sores.
Anti-decubitus mattresses
There are several mattresses that are suitable for high-risk individuals:
Foam
Foam anti-bedsore mattresses provide good support. The spread pressure lowers the risk of pressure sores and stimulates wound healing.
Alternating
The alternating anti-bedsore mattresses have a special feature: they can change pressure. The pressure areas are alternated, so no one area of skin is under constant pressure. This makes an alternating mattress an excellent preventative measure. The alternating mattresses work after being connected to a silent electric pump.
Low-air loss
A low-air loss anti-bedsore mattressconsists of cells that slowly release air. An electric pump is the supply. The constant flow of air around the body ensures good skin condition. Again, an electric pump does its job.
Hybrid
Hybrid anti-bedsore mattresses combine the benefits of a pocket spring mattress and a foam mattress. As a result, they offer great support and have a high degree of comfort.
Special cushions against bedsores
Antidecubitus cushions are also an effective tool. These are cushions that are meant to be sat on. These aids may be particularly suitable for wheelchair patients or people who have to sit a lot due to illness. Many of the types of pillows correspond to the mattresses mentioned above. When it comes to pillows, you can think of:
Foam
The foam cushions support the entire seating area. This is because the bone is close to the skin. This makes the seating area a risk spot for bedsores.
Gel-foam
Gel-foam has more or less the same effect, but also offers cooling through the gel. The result is a comfortable seating position.
Alternating
The alternating seat cushions change pressure and are accompanied by an electric pump.
Hybrid
Gel-air pillows consist of air cells, which also contain gel. This provides a high degree of comfort that reduces the pressure on certain parts of the body.
Decubitus prevention in nursing homes
Want to know more about our antidecubitus products? Bos Medical International is an expert in this field. We are happy to help you. Feel free to contact us using the details on our website!