Pressure Ulcers

This pressure ulcer guide is available in three versions on this page: text, image, and PDF download. Please choose the option you would like to read.

Pressure Ulcers – Text Version

Pressure Ulcers – Image Version

Pressure Ulcers – PDF Download

Pressure Ulcers – Text Version

This is an easy read guide about pressure ulcers. It will show you early signs to look for and how to help stop pressure ulcers. If you think you may have a pressure ulcer contact your nurse.

What is a pressure ulcer?

A pressure ulcer is an area of damage to the skin. They are also known as pressure sores or bed sores.

Who can get a pressure ulcer?

Anyone can get a pressure ulcer but some things can make you more at risk. You can be more at risk of a pressure ulcer if you have poor circulation.

You can be more at risk of a pressure ulcer if you wear a pad for going to the toilet.(if you wet your pad)

You can be more at risk of a pressure ulcer if you:

  • Only walk short distances
  • Use a wheelchair
  • Sit down for a long time
  • Stay in bed for a long time.

You can be more at risk of a pressure ulcer if you are older.

Where can you get a pressure ulcer?

Here is where you are most likely to get a pressure ulcer. They are most common on bony parts of the body. The red dots show where you are most likely to get a pressure ulcer.

What are the signs of a pressure ulcer?

  • Light skin can turn red and dark skin can turn purple or blue.
  • Your skin may swell and be painful.
  • You may have a blister.
  • You may have hot or cold patches of skin.
  • You may have a hard patch of skin.

How to stop pressure ulcers?

  • Do change your position regularly.
  • Do clean your skin with warm water and pat dry.
  • Do check your skin for early signs.
  • Do eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
  • Do use cushions to make yourself comfortable.
  • Do use a barrier cream if you use pads for going to the toilet.
  • Do not sit on donut cushions.
  • Do not sit or lie on sheepskin fabric.
  • Do not sit or lie on creased clothes or creased fabrics.
  • Do not sit or lie on zips.
  • Do not use talcum powder.

Pressure Ulcers  – Image Version

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