Pressure injury prevention and treatment
Understanding Pressure injury prevention and treatment
Pressure injuries — sometimes called bedsores or decubiti — develop when sustained pressure on the skin reduces blood flow to underlying tissue. They most commonly occur over bony prominences such as the sacrum, heels, hips, and elbows in patients with limited mobility. Prevention is far more effective than treatment, and a comprehensive program combines regular repositioning, skin assessment, nutrition optimization, and appropriate support surfaces.
When a pressure injury does develop, accurate staging guides the treatment plan. Stages range from intact skin with non-blanchable redness (Stage 1) through full-thickness tissue loss that may expose muscle or bone (Stage 4). Wound care nurses assess each injury at every visit, select evidence-based dressings, manage moisture and infection risk, and adjust turning schedules to relieve pressure on affected areas while promoting healing.
What to Expect from Your Wound Care Team
A wound care nurse will evaluate your skin during each visit, paying close attention to areas at highest risk. They will help establish a turning and repositioning schedule — typically every two hours — and recommend support surfaces such as pressure-redistributing mattresses or cushions. Nutritional needs will be assessed because adequate protein, calories, and hydration are essential for tissue integrity.
Staging, Treatment, and Prevention Strategies
Your nurse will stage any existing pressure injuries and select dressings designed to maintain a moist healing environment while protecting surrounding skin. Prevention strategies include keeping skin clean and dry, using barrier creams in moisture-prone areas, and avoiding friction during repositioning. Caregivers will receive hands-on training in safe turning techniques and how to inspect skin for early warning signs.
When to Contact Your Care Team
Contact your nurse if you notice new areas of redness that do not fade when pressure is relieved, increased drainage or odor from an existing wound, or skin that feels unusually warm or appears darker than surrounding tissue. A fever combined with wound changes may indicate infection. If you develop sudden severe pain at the wound site, high fever with chills, or signs of sepsis such as confusion and rapid heart rate, call 911 immediately.
This educational resource is provided by CarePine Home Health for informational purposes. Always follow the individualized care plan developed by your healthcare team. If you have questions or concerns about your condition, contact your care team or call CarePine at 888.507.2997.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or home health care team for personalized medical guidance.