Caring for a family member who is bed-bound has its challenges.
Decubitis Ulcers (bed sores) are common and painful for the care recipient if not checked every 2 hrs.
Decubitis Ulcers occur when a protruding part of the body has pressure upon it that needs to be relieved.
This means the care recipient must be turned or have their position changed every couple of hours to relieve the pressure.
Decubitis Ulcers are identified by redness on the body area.
This indicates lack of blood flow because of the pressure placed upon it.
Care recipients with less muscle tone and fatty tissue are more susceptible to these pressure area injuries.
All pressure area marks must be reported to the supervising nurse.
Some relief can be given by rubbing sorbolene to the area.
Gentle massage of the cream onto the reddened area, not vigorous rubbing.
The carer is trying to restore circulation not rub the redness off the skin.
It will take on-going care and attention to restore the proper colour and integrity of the skin.
Remember to change the position of the client every two hours.
Place a pillow behind the effected area to relieve pressure whilst the client lies on the good side.
Susceptible areas include, buttocks, ankles, heels, shoulder, blades, ears and elbows etc.
Any areas where there is pressure upon the body from weight or position.
The comfort of the client is paramount to their well-being.
A comfortable and pain free client means an easy client to work with.
A pain free client will ensure good rapport and a trusting relationship between client and carer.