Pressure ulcer care
Please click on the headings below to find information about how to prevent pressure ulcers and improve healing.
What is a pressure ulcer?
A pressure ulcer (sometimes called a bed sore) is an area of damaged skin that has been caused by continuous and unrelieved pressure.
They can happen to anyone, anywhere on the body but usually over a bony area.
They range from a discolouration of the skin to a deep wound reaching the bone.
Pressure ulcers can also develop because of moisture, friction, and shearing (pressure that occurs when part of the body tries to move but the surface of the skin remains fixed).
Who can develop a pressure ulcer?
Anyone can develop a pressure ulcer, however certain factors can put you at more risk:
- Poor diet and hydration can affect how fast you heal from a pressure ulcer.
- Not moving or changing position enough to provide pressure relief from at-risk areas.
- The risk is higher in those who are underweight and overweight; however, people who are the right weight can still develop a pressure ulcer.
Good nutrition and hydration are essential to prevent pressure ulcers and to promote optimal wound healing.
The importance of protein
Protein is necessary for the growth and repair of all tissues including muscle and skin.
Most people should aim for 2-3 servings of protein per day from varied sources such as:
- meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein
- bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and other starchy foods
- food and drinks high in fat and/or sugar
- fruits and vegetables
How to eat and drink well for wound healing
- Ensure you have more protein and calories to support your pressure ulcer to heal.
- People over 65 years of age require 3 portions of protein per day.
- Try eating regular meals (breakfast, lunch and tea) throughout the day. Include a protein source at each meal.
- Set a timetable highlighting when you should eat, rather than waiting until you feel hungry.
- Choose higher energy foods (avoid 'diet' or 'light' options).
Have extra snacks between meals, such as:
- thick and creamy yoghurt
- slice of bread/toast with nut butter (peanut/almond)
- cheese and crackers
- houmous and pitta bread
- hot cross bun or scone
- shortbread biscuit with a glass of milk
- mini quiche
- banana
- malt loaf
- handful of nuts
- hard-boiled egg
- Have nourishing drinks such as milk or milk alternatives. Speak to your GP if you are finding swallowing difficult.
- Ensure you are drinking plenty . Aim for 6-8 glasses (200ml each) of fluid daily. All fluids count - tea, coffee, milk, water, and juice.
- Try to drink more than this if you lose fluid from your wound.
- Stay within recommended limits for alcohol consumption (no more than 14 units per week).
Movement
Any movement (however small) you can make will help provide pressure relief to vulnerable 'at-risk' areas. Simple exercises you can do include:
- raising/moving your arms up/down
- lifting your legs and/or rotating your ankles
- turning your body from side to side
If you experience pain, or if you have severe shortness of breath, or any redness or swelling after exercising - stop and speak to a health professional such as your GP, or 111 if you are in severe discomfort.
