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Pressure ulcers are areas of damage to the skin and underlying tissue. They are also known as pressure sores or bed sores. Pressure ulcers are caused by :

Pressure-normal body weight can squash the skin in people at risk and damage blood supply to the area, which can lead to tissue damage.

The following factors may also contribute to the development of ulcers:

Shearing- strain forces the skin and upper layers away from deeper layers of skin. This can happen when you slide down, or are dragged up, a bed or chair.
Friction-poor lifting and moving techniques can remove the top layers of skin. Repeated friction can increase the risk of pressure ulcers.

Do not let it get to this.

Identify potential cause	Preventative measures
How old is the cushion/mattress? Do you have difficulty in transferring? Recent fall or knocked skin ? No longer able to relieve pressure ? Has your weight changed ? Has your posture changed ? Are you feeling low in mood ? Have you recently been unwell ? Do you have a well balanced diet ? Have you been drinking enough?	Check skin before getting up and on return to bed. Drink 2-3 litres of fluids a day. Eat a well balanced diet. Keep skin clean and dry. Check condition of cushion regularly. Check condition of mattress regularly. Check skin more frequently if using new equipment or undertaking new activities

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Duke of Cornwall Spinal Treatment Centre

PRESSURE ULCER PREVENTION

Do not let it get to this.