Overview of Decubitus Ulcers, Lubbock TX

Stages of Decubitus Ulcers, Lubbock TX
The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel has developed a series of four stages of a
decubitus ulcer to aid in diagnosis
and treatment.
Stage I:
The skin is discolored but not broken. Light-complexioned people
may have red marks. Dark complexioned people may have a discoloration that is
blue or purple. In some people, the discoloration is white.
Stage II:
Skin breaks open and the ulcer is shallow with a reddish or
pinkish wound bed. There may be tissue death around the wound, or a
fluid-filled blister.
Stage III:
Ulcer on the skin is deeper, affecting the fat layer and looking
like a crater. Pus may be in the wound.
Stage IV:
Ulcer moves to deeper layers of muscle or bone. A dark material
called "eschar" may be inside the ulcer.
Unstageable:
An ulcer that is yellow or green. It might have a brown scab
covering it, or be soft and look pus filled. A dry and stable ulcer surface is
the body's natural protection and should be allowed to continue
healing.
Prevention of Decubitus Ulcers
Bedsores can still form even if a patient is receiving excellent medical care or
household care. To help prevent bedsores in a person who is confined to a bed
or chair, the plan of care includes these strategies:
Relieve pressure on vulnerable areas
Use
pillows to raise the person's arms, legs, buttocks and hips. Relieve pressure
on the back with an egg-crate foam mattress, a water mattress or a sheepskin.
Reduce shear and friction
Keep
the bed free from crumbs and other particles that can rub and irritate the
skin. Use sheepskin boots and elbow pads to reduce friction on heels and
elbows. Wash the person gently. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the skin.
Inspect the person's skin at least once each day
Early
detection can prevent stage I redness from becoming worse.
Encourage the person to eat well
The
diet should include enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. If the
person cannot eat enough food, ask your doctor about nutritional supplements.
Encourage daily exercise — Exercise increases blood flow and speeds healing. In
many cases, even bedridden people can do stretches and simple exercises.
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