Pressure Ulcer

A pressure ulcer is a sore, or wound that forms when soft skin and muscle tissue are squeezed between a bone and a surface like a mattress or chair for long periods of time. Normally, our nerves signal us to shift our weight or change sitting or sleeping positions frequently, without our even noticing. Illness or injury can reduce these natural actions. Then, prolonged pressure on the blood vessels cuts down circulation. This lessens the flow of blood and the oxygen it carries to the skin. The skin dies and a pressure ulcer forms.

Many things increase the risk of getting pressure ulcers:

Skin dampness
Partial or total paralysis
Confinement to chair or bed
Poor diet
Decreased awareness
Other health conditions

The best way to help heal a pressure ulcer and prevent another one from forming is to take care of your whole body.

The following factors are vital to healthy skin:

Good nutrition: A balanced diet is very important for healthy skin. Meals should include a variety of foods to include protein, starches, vegetables and fruits.
Proper fluid intake: drinking plenty of liquids during the day will help the skin stay healthier.
Cleanliness: Keep skin very clean and free from urine, perspiration or drainage from the wound. Bathe or shower for comfort and cleanliness, but don’t overdo it so that your skin dries out. Use a soft cloth, mild soap and warm water. Rinse and dry very well, but be careful not to irritate the skin with rough towels.
Skin inspection: inspect the skin every day. Use a mirror for hard-to-see places. Look for red spots that don’t go away.
Skin care: Utilize skin care products to protect healthy skin from drying out, especially in cold, dry weather. Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to suggest a good body lotion and protective ointment.
Body position: At least every two hours, move your body, to change positions and relieve pressure.
Weight distribution: Use a mattress or cushion filled with gel, air, water or thick foam to evenly distribute body weight. Do not use doughnut-shaped pillows as they cut off the blood supply to the skin.
Frequent movement: shift your weight at least every 15 minutes, walk or exercise to improve your circulation.

The wound healing team will work with you and your physician to help identify and heal the pressure ulcer.

Wound Care Center
Regional Rehabilitation Institute
2908 Fifth Street (3rd Floor)
Rapid City, SD 57701
(605) 719-1309

Services are available Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.