01Maintain Good Skin Hygiene

  • Keep your skin clean and dry at all times.
  • Use mild, pH-balanced cleansers to wash your skin.
  • Pat dry your skin gently after bathing or showering.
  • Avoid using hot water and harsh soaps, as they can be too drying for the skin.
  • Ensure any areas of excessive moisture, such as under folds of skin or between toes, are kept dry to prevent skin breakdown.

02Frequently Change Positions

  • If you are bedridden, change your position every 2 hours.
  • If you use a wheelchair, shift your weight every 15 minutes.
  • Use pillows, cushions, or foam pads to relieve pressure on bony areas.
  • Avoid prolonged sitting or lying in one position.

03Maintain a Healthy Diet

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to promote skin health.
  • Ensure adequate intake of protein and vitamins.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
  • Consult a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

04Avoid Friction and Shear

  • Use proper lifting and transferring techniques to minimize friction and shear forces.
  • Use a lifting device or ask for assistance when moving or repositioning a person.
  • Avoid dragging or sliding the body across surfaces.
  • Use smooth, clean bed linens and avoid wrinkles.
  • Consider using specialized pressure-relieving mattresses or cushions.

05Regularly Inspect and Care for Your Skin

  • Inspect your skin daily for any signs of redness or irritation.
  • Pay special attention to bony areas and areas with limited sensation.
  • Take prompt action if you notice any changes in your skin, such as blisters or sores.
  • Apply moisturizers or barrier creams to keep your skin hydrated and protected.
  • Seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your skin.

Conclusion

By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing bed sores. Remember to maintain good skin hygiene, frequently change positions, maintain a healthy diet, avoid friction and shear, and regularly inspect and care for your skin. If you have limited mobility or are caring for someone who is bedridden, it's important to be proactive in preventing bed sores and seeking medical advice if needed.

MethodsDetails
Maintain Good Skin HygieneKeep your skin clean and dry, use mild cleansers, and avoid excessive moisture.
Frequently Change PositionsChange positions every few hours, use pillows or foam pads for pressure relief.
Maintain a Healthy DietEat a balanced diet, ensure adequate protein and vitamin intake, and stay hydrated.
Avoid Friction and ShearUse proper lifting techniques, avoid dragging or sliding the body, and use pressure-relieving mattresses.
Regularly Inspect and Care for Your SkinInspect your skin daily, apply moisturizers or barrier creams, and seek medical advice if needed.
bed sores
pressure ulcers
decubitus ulcers
skin injuries
limited mobility
skin health