What is a Bed Sore? How is Bed Sore Care Provided?

What is a Bed Sore?
How is Bed Sore Care Provided?

Bed sores occur in individuals who remain in the same position for prolonged periods. They are especially common among individuals with limited mobility. In advanced stages, bed sores can become distressing and challenging for both the patient and the caregiver. However, with proper bed sore care, it is possible to reduce these problems. Additionally, taking simple precautions can prevent bed sores from forming. In this article, we explain the key points you need to know about bed sores.

Contents:

What is a Bed Sore? Why Do Bed Sores Occur?
What Are the Stages of Bed Sores? StagebyStage Bed Sore Care
PostSurgery Bed Sore Care
Tips to Prevent Bed Sores

What is a Bed Sore? Why Do Bed Sores Occur?

Bed sores occur when the skin and underlying tissues are damaged due to prolonged pressure. The highest risk groups include bedridden individuals and those with limited mobility. They can also occur in individuals with nerve damage leading to sensory loss (e.g., spinal cord injuries or diabetes). People with circulation problems, elderly individuals, and those who are overweight or underweight are also at risk. Overweight individuals are exposed to increased pressure on tissues, while underweight individuals have insufficient subcutaneous tissue, which increases the risk of bed sores. Pressure restricts blood flow to the skin, causing oxygen deprivation in the tissues. This results in redness, blisters, and open wounds. In severe cases, tissue death can extend to deeper layers. The most commonly affected areas are bony prominences close to the skin, including the back, tailbone, hips, heels, elbows, knees, and ankles.

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Stages of Bed Sores and Bed Sore Care

Experts classify bed sores into four stages based on their effects on the skin and tissues. Each stage indicates how deep the wound has progressed and what level of intervention is needed.

Stage 1 Bed Sore: Redness and Sensitivity

At this stage, the bed sore is superficial and affects only the skin's surface. There is no serious damage yet, but if left untreated, it may worsen:

Persistent redness that does not fade even when pressure is relieved.

A temperature difference is noticeable when you touch the area; it may feel warmer or cooler.

Mild swelling or tenderness may occur.

Stage 1 Bed Sore Care

If you observe these symptoms, take action immediately. Reduce pressure by changing the patient's position and support the skin with protective products. A simple intervention at this stage can prevent more serious problems. A bedridden caregiver can assist by regularly repositioning the patient to protect the skin. They can also check sensitive areas to detect early signs of bed sores.

Stage 2 Bed Sore: Blisters or Superficial Open Wounds

In stage 2, the damage becomes more visible:

The upper layer of the skin is damaged and may extend to the deeper layer of the skin.

Blisters or open wounds appear.

Redness and swelling continue around the bed sore.

Stage 2 Bed Sore Care

Sterile care is crucial at this stage. Keep the wound clean and protect it from infection with appropriate dressing. The wound should not be too dry or overly moist. If the condition worsens, consult a doctor. A bedridden caregiver can perform regular dressing changes and wound care, helping reduce the risk of infection.

Before starting, clean the area around the wound hygienically. During dressing, use sterile gloves, dressing pads, gauze, dressing tape, and a sterilized cleaning solution recommended by your doctor. Ensure all materials are hygienic. After dressing, carefully cover the wound with gauze. Avoid applying pressure to the wound. Dressing may need to be repeated 1–2 times a day, depending on the wound’s condition. Additionally, to accelerate the healing process, bed sore bandages can be used. Proper dressing not only speeds up healing but also reduces the risk of infection. Be sure to follow your doctor's recommendations when choosing dressing materials.

Stage 3 Bed Sore: Deep Wounds and Tissue Loss

By this stage, the wound has extended below the skin and become deeper:

You can see the fat tissue beneath the skin. The wound resembles a crater.

Signs of infection become more apparent: swelling, foul odor, and yellowish discharge may be observed.

Tissue death (necrosis) begins, and the skin around the wound may harden.

Stage 3 Bed Sore Care

At this stage, professional medical support is essential. Regular wound cleaning and appropriate dressing are required. The caregiver plays an important role here by ensuring the patient’s hygiene and maintaining the health of the tissues around the wound.

Stage 4 Bed Sore: Muscle and Bone Damage

This is the most advanced stage of bed sores and is a very serious condition:

The wound deepens, reaching muscles, tendons, and bones.

Severe signs of infection are present. The wound may emit a foul odor and discharge pus.

Tissue loss is significant, and the wound area appears sunken.

Stage 4 Bed Sore Care

Patients in this stage must be treated in a hospital. Doctors may perform surgical interventions before the infection spreads. Medications may also be prescribed to control the infection. A caregiver helps meet the patient’s daily needs while closely monitoring the condition of the wound. They promptly report potential complications to healthcare professionals.

PostSurgery Bed Sore Care

After surgery, the patient should avoid lying on the operated area. Doctors may use negative pressure wound therapy (incision management) to support faster tissue healing. During this period, maintaining normal blood values, particularly hemoglobin, is extremely important.

Tips to Prevent Bed Sores

Regularly reposition the patient to relieve pressure and protect the skin.
Keep the skin clean and dry; this small step can prevent bed sores effectively.
Use moisturizing creams or lotions suitable for sensitive skin to protect it.
Opt for pressurerelieving mattresses and cushions for better comfort.
Include foods rich in protein, vitamin C, and zinc in the patient’s diet to aid healing.
Ensure the patient drinks enough water to maintain skin elasticity.
Inspect the skin daily for redness or tenderness and take action immediately.
Address small signs early, as early intervention is always easier.
Provide emotional support, as care and love significantly accelerate recovery.

At Lamer Consulting, we offer experienced livein and daytime caregivers specializing in bed sore care. Contact us today for more information and to receive support during this challenging process!

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What is a Bed Sore?
How is Bed Sore Care Provided?

What is a Bed Sore? Why Do Bed Sores Occur?