Pressure sores form when the skin is subjected to continuous pressure, rubbing or sliding friction, for example, in people who are forced to spend considerable amounts of time in bed or seated and have difficulty changing position. Pressure sore treatment is simple and the sores heal easily. It is, of course, necessary to act quickly because complications can occur and many problems can appear.
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Types of pressure sores or ulcers
The Sitlive line offers support for the treatment of pressure sores. The areas where pressure sores or ulcers usually appear are the back, buttocks, knees, shoulders and head. These are areas that are not covered by a significant amount of fat and are in direct contact with a support surface, such as a bed or a wheelchair.
There are several types of pressure sore or ulcer and these are classified according to their severity:
- Grade 1. This is a superficial ulcer. The skin remains intact but can be painful, itchy and soft or hard to the touch. The area can also become discoloured or red. Pressure sore treatment at this stage is preventative. The area needs to be washed thoroughly, dried and covered with a dressing.
- Grade 2. The sore appears as an open wound or blister due to skin damage and there may be a loss of cutaneous tissue. Pressure sore treatment in this case is similar to the previous grade, but if there is an infection in the area, a doctor should assess it and indicate the best way to heal it.
- Grade 3. All layers of the skin are lost and the tissue looks damaged (but not the muscles or bones). A deep wound is caused. Treatment needs to be carried out by health personnel because of the high risk of infection.
- Grade 4. This is the most severe type of pressure ulcer. The skin is severely damaged and the tissue is in the process of dying (necrosis). The muscles and bones can also be damaged and serious infections can develop. As with Grade 3 pressure ulcers, pressure sore treatment for these should be carried out by medical personnel.
How to heal pressure sores
It is important to know how to heal pressure sores or ulcers to prevent major problems. And the best pressure sore treatment is prevention. Good hygiene of the patient must be maintained every day, especially in highly sensitive areas. While carrying this out, the patient’s body should be checked for any damage to the skin. As soon as any small symptom is noticed, a doctor should be consulted. After taking care of hygiene, the skin then needs to be hydrated. This will prevent dryness and lack of nutrition.
Also important is helping the patient to change position. As far as is possible and practicable, the patient should be moved every so often to prevent the onset of pressure sores. Use should also be made of pressure relief sheets and cushions and other aids designed to prevent the onset of pressure ulcers.
Orliman offers its Sitlive line. A series of pressure relief, incontinence and rest products designed to improve the quality of life of people who spend considerable amounts of time in bed or seated. The Sitlive line distributes pressure areas, prevents moisture on the skin and is made from the best quality materials.
For example, Sitlive pressure relief cushions are designed for people who sit for a long time. There are different models, depending on the grade of the ulcer:
- Preventative (for prevention or low risk or grade 1 users).
- Viscoelastic (for medium to high risk or grade 2 and 3 risk).
- Air, for those who are at high risk or have grade 4 ulcers.
Other orthopaedic pressure relief products
Another product from the Sitlive line is the Soft pressure relief sheet. Made from a soft fabric and with a treatment that protects the skin and always keeps it dry. It also reduces fiction forces and disperses the pressure.
This Orliman line also features other pressure relief supports for pressure sore treatment and prevention, such as boots, elbow protectors, mittens, wrist protectors, heel protectors and heel cushions. All of them designed to ensure maximum comfort, hygiene and breathability.
Pressure sores are a major health problem. And if they do not heal on time, they can lead to infections and more serious disorders. As a result, in pressure sore treatment, hygiene, the use of special products (such as the Sitlive line) and careful monitoring are key aspects to ensure good care.