Quick Science Popularization | Pressure Ulcers: The Invisible Enemy for Hospitalized Bedridden Patients

Patients who are bedridden for extended periods, especially during hospital treatment, face a common issue—pressure ulcers, also known as pressure sores. Pressure ulcers are conditions caused by prolonged pressure on localized body tissues, leading to circulatory disorders and subsequent necrosis of the skin and subcutaneous tissues.

Definition and Risks of Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers occur due to sustained pressure on certain body parts, resulting in circulatory obstruction and leading to the necrosis of skin and subcutaneous tissues. They not only cause significant pain to patients but can also lead to severe infections, and are potentially life-threatening.

Causes of Pressure Ulcers

1. Localized Pressure: Prolonged pressure on the same area is the primary cause of ulcer development.
2. Increased Skin Temperature: Elevated temperatures enhance tissue metabolism, accelerating nutrient depletion.
3. Moist or Unclean Skin: Excessive moisture or uncleanliness can damage the skin's barrier function, increasing the risk of ulcers.
4. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, for instance, reduces the skin's resistance.
5. Malnutrition: A state of hypoproteinemia weakens the skin's ability to withstand pressure.
6. Diabetes Mellitus: Hyperglycemia affects skin integrity and healing capacity.

Prevention Strategies for Pressure Ulcers

1. Regular Position Change: Turn every 2-3 hours to prevent prolonged pressure on the same area.
2. Use of Medical Mattresses: Opt for mattresses that alleviate tissue pressure, such as alternating pressure mattresses.
3. Maintaining Skin Dryness and Cleanliness: Regularly cleanse with warm water to keep the body clean and promptly clean excretions.
4. Nutritional Support: Provide a diet high in protein and vitamins, with enteral feeding if necessary.
5. Medication for Prevention: Use iodophor, petrolatum, and other agents to protect the skin and reduce abrasions.
6. Diabetes Management: Collaborate with physicians to maintain optimal blood sugar levels.
7. Smoking Cessation: Avoid smoking to reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers.

IV. Treatment Measures for Pressure Ulcers

1. Debridement: Removal of necrotic tissue to promote wound healing.
2. Pressure Reduction: Utilize support pads or mattresses to alleviate pressure.
3. Special Dressings: Apply appropriate dressings to keep the wound moist and facilitate healing.
4. Infection Control: Use antibiotics to treat infections when necessary.
5. Surgical Intervention: Severe ulcers may require surgical repair.

V. Key Points in Pressure Ulcer Care

1. Skin Condition Monitoring: Regularly inspect the skin, especially bony prominences.
2. Individualized Care Plans: Develop care plans based on the patient's specific situation.
3. Psychological Support: Pressure ulcers can affect patients' emotions, necessitating psychological support.
4. Educating Family Members: Teach proper care methods to improve the quality of home care.

VI. Conclusion Pressure ulcers are preventable and treatable conditions.

By understanding their causes and taking appropriate preventive measures, hospitalized bedridden patients can significantly reduce the risk of developing ulcers. At the same time, the attentive care of medical staff and family members is crucial for the prevention and early treatment of pressure ulcers. Remember, specific treatment and care plans should be tailored to the patient's condition and follow the physician's recommendations.

References

Wei Wenshi. How to Prevent Pressure Ulcers in Bedridden Elderly People with Dementia? Doctors: Pay Attention to These 6 Key Points. [Online] 2020. [Accessed on: 2024-07-08]. https://new.qq.com/rain/a/20200317A0IWUX00

Hospital Collection - Dingxiang Garden. Why Do Pressure Ulcers Occur? How Much Do You Know About the Prevention and Care of Pressure Ulcers? [Online] 2024. [Accessed on: 2024-07-08]. https://y.dxy.cn/hospital/6161/838217.html

Youlai Doctor. Treatment and Care Methods for Bed Sores. [Online] 2024. [Accessed on: 2024-07-08]. https://www.youlai.cn/yyk/article/359195.html

Merck Manual Consumer Edition. Pressure Sores. [Online] 2024. [Accessed on: 2024-07-08]. https://www.msdmanuals.cn/home/skin-disorders/pressure-sores/pressure-sores

This article synthesizes information from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive introduction to pressure ulcers, including definition, causes, prevention, treatment, and care points. It is hoped that this article can help hospitalized bedridden patients and their families better understand and deal with pressure ulcer issues.