How to Prevent Sores With a Low Pressure Mattress

Patients who are unable to move, lack sensation in parts of or most of their body or have impaired circulation to certain parts of their body may be at risk for the formation of pressure ulcers. These types of wounds occur because of excessive external pressure, friction and shear from things like a bed or wheelchair. When a person cannot move or feel the sensation of pain and is confined to a bed, there is an increased chance that they may develop pressure ulcers. When low pressure mattresses are used in conjunction with other preventive measures, the risk of sores, wound formation or pressure ulcers decreases dramatically.

Things You'll Need

• Low pressure mattress
• Draw sheet
• Turning schedule
• Disposable briefs
• Moisture barriers

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Instructions

• 1

  Place the patient on a low pressure mattress such as a water bed or air bed. These mattresses do not exert a lot of pressure on the skin, so they reduce the risk of pressure ulcer formation.

• 2

  Turn the patient on a schedule. Create and post a schedule for turning the patient from one side to the other so that one part of his body is not exposed to pressure for prolonged periods.

• 3

  Relieve pressure on the heels of an immobile patient by raising her heels off the surface of the bed.

• 4

  Use a draw sheet and lift, rather than drag, your patient off the bed during position changes. This prevents excessive shearing and friction, thus reducing the risk of pressure ulcer formation.

• 5

  Cleanse your patient's skin in a timely manner. Increased moisture may increase the risk of pressure ulcer formation. Use moisture barriers and disposable briefs if needed.