Pressure sores (also referred to as pressure ulcers or bedsores) are most likely to occur in patients who have a reduced capacity for movement such as the terminally ill, the elderly, and those who have to spend long periods of time without movement. While the implementation of suitable procedures for patients to be moved and turned is essential in the fight against pressure sores, there is now a range of equipment that can assist and reduce the number of incidents occurring.
Pressure Relief Cushions
For people who are not bed-bound, sitting for long periods of time can also be a cause of pressure sores. Sitting on a specially designed cushion can aid the distribution of weight so that sores are less likely to form.
Heel and Elbow protectors
For wheel-chair users, and anyone who has trouble moving their feet or hands, heel and elbow protectors provide comfort while the limbs are at rest, so that the pressure of their weight against a footrest, or the floor, or the arm-rest or tables can be minimised.
Foot Elevators
Keeping the feet elevated can aid blood-flow around the legs and feet and hence reduce the risk of pressure sores developing.
Pressure-relieving mattresses
Alongside many types of supports and cushions, pressure-relieving mattresses are one of the most successful ways to minimise the risk of bedsores. There are two different kinds: the first uses a conforming support – such as memory foam – surface to distribute the body weight over a larger area, hence relieving the pressure on particular areas. The second type use an alternating support surface where inflatable cells alternatively inflate and deflate so that the pressure moves around constantly, avoiding the pressure build-up on any particular part of the body.
Commode cushions and ring cushions
Hard chairs and toilet seats can be very painful for anyone with pressure sores, and prolonged periods of time upon either can increase the risk of sores developing. By using a commode cushion while on the lavatory, or a ring cushion when sitting on hard chairs, comfort can be increased and risk of aggravating the development of pressure sores can be avoided.
Fleece Sheets
Fleece sheets are very soft and do not stick to the body like some ordinary sheets can. To a certain extent their softness also alleviates some of the pressure against the skin and also they allow the skin to breathe, making it less likely for pressure sores to develop.
Have you developed pressure sores?
If you or someone you care for has developed pressure sores while under the care of medical professionals or while in a care-home, you could well be entitled to make a claim for compensation. Contact us today to find out how we can help you get the pay out you deserve.