Preventing Decubitus Ulcer

Decubitus ulcers, also known as pressure ulcers and bedsores, are a common problem in hospitals and generally recognised as one of the leading causes of harm to patients.

Patients, who are frail, mostly elderly, immobile for long periods of time, are those at greatest risk of developing decubitus. Such conditions might be worsened by pre-existing inadequate health care, nursing and services.

Below are some simple tips to prevent decubitus ulcers:

• Keeping active and changing your positions frequently to relieve the pressure. This is a simple but the most important thing you can do, no matter you're sitting in a chair or lying in bed.
• Avoid massaging or firmly pressing your skin especially over bony parts of your body. Tell nurses or other staff if you feel any soreness, reddened, painful, swelling or broken skin over those bony parts.
• Asking or alerting your family, nurses or staff to help change your position regularly when you are unable to move yourself

It seems these are very simple, but yet often forgotten. A consistent and continuous application and promotion about these measures, have been proven can reduce the incidence of bedsores by 10 per cent in many hospitals. So keep patients safe when they are hospitalised, and prevent further unnecessary harm!