Actions which may be taken to reduce the risk of developing pressure sores
We have already mentioned some strategies which may help prevent Mr Winters developing pressure sores:
- A pressure care risk assessment should be included and updated as required in the patients notes
- Changing his position regularly
- Checking his pressure areas/points
- Liaising with colleagues
- Using appropriate pressure relieving equipment
In addition, you may need to consider other factors such as:
- Ensuring there are minimal creases in the bed sheets and pillow slips
- Ensuring the person is not lying/sitting on hoist slings
- Ensuring the person is not lying/sitting on their catheter
- Ensuring the person’s clothing is not too tight e.g. socks
- Maintain continence if necessary by regular toileting and changes of incontinence products
- Being aware that if a person is sweating this will cause their skin and any clothing/bed linen to be damp
- Ensure pressure relief cushion is used if required and if necessary label with patients name to ensure it is used for the correct patient
Page last reviewed: 26 Mar 2021
