Bedsores

Diagnosis

In order to determine whether you have a pressure ulcer and to classify the wound’s stage, your doctor will examine your skin closely. Staging aids in choosing the best course of treatment for you. Blood tests may be required to determine your general health.

Treatment

In order to successfully treat pressure ulcers, the damaged skin must be relieved from pressure while also receiving wound care, pain management, infection control, and nutritional support.

Reducing pressure

Reducing the pressure and friction that led to a bedsore is the first step in curing it. Techniques consist of:

• Repositioning. Make frequent turns and position changes if you have a bedsore. Your condition and the quality of the surface you are on will determine how frequently you re-adjust.
• Using support surfaces. Use a mattress, a bed, and special pillows to assist you when you sit or lie down while preserving the integrity of your delicate skin.

Cleaning and dressing wounds

The deepness of the wound determines the care needed. Generally, cleaning and dressing a wound includes the following:

• Cleaning. Wash the afflicted skin with a mild cleanser and pat it dry if it is not broken. Every time the dressing is changed, wash the exposed wounds with water or a saltwater (saline) solution.
• Putting on a bandage. By keeping the wound moist, a bandage expedites healing. Additionally, it protects against infection and keeps the skin surrounding it dry. Films, gauzes, gels, foams, and treated coverings are available as bandage options.

Removing damaged tissue

Wounds must get rid of diseased, dead, or infected tissue in order to recover effectively. By gently washing the wound with water or by surgically removing damaged tissue, the doctor or nurse can remove damaged tissue (debride).

Other interventions

• Pain reliever. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as naproxen sodium and ibuprofen, may lessen discomfort. Topical painkillers are also beneficial when treating wounds.
• A healthy diet. Healthy eating improves wound healing.

Surgery

If a large bedsore does not heal, surgery can be necessary. Using a pad of your muscle, skin, or other tissue to cover the wound and cushion the damaged bone is one of the surgical repair technique (flap surgery).