Bedsores - Prevention Summary

There are a number of things that can be done for prevention of sores:

• Help the person shift frequently, at least every couple of hours.  If the person can't move at all..... consider getting a bed that can shift their position automatically.

• Be careful of pressure on bony areas, like the heel or lower spine. Pay special attention to those areas
  

• For people who can't move their feet, I always try to place a sheepskin pad under their heels. The elbows can also be protected by pads.

• If the bed tilts up, put padding or a roll pillow at the foot of the bed so that feet don't get wedged against a hard surface. Be careful of sliding.

• Be careful not to allow friction burns from sliding on the bed. This can happen accidentally when tilting the bed up, when changing the linen, or when sliding the person off or on the bed.

• Bathe daily, and more frequently as needed, using appropriate products.

• Don't allow the skin to get too dry. After bathing or cleaning, use a good moisturizing lotion all over. Thoroughly massage the lotion into the skin.

• Keep bedding clean and dry, and be careful of wet or damp linen or bedding.

• If using a wheelchair, be careful of prolonged contact with hard surfaces. Use high quality pads.