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Pressure Sores & Bony Prominences: "I've got a bone to pick with you!"
(Medline Plus Information Link Right Here)
Bony prominences are areas of the body that are at the greatest risk for developing pressure sores resulting in wounds. Pressure sore wounds are of concern for home health nursing. These are the most commonly seen areas where pressure sores develop and are quite preventable if the right care is provided.
Prevention is key: in order to help prevent pressure ulcers it is essential to change positions and relieve spots that accumulate pressure. When a person is in the same position for more than two hours the bony prominences as well as other areas are at great danger for developing a sore. Here are some ways to prevent pressure sores:
In a wheelchair:
1) Rotate positions as often as the person is able, or about every hour with assistance.
2) Specialized chairs that rotate automatically can assist with this.
3) Foam, gel, water, or air filled cushions may be used to relieve pressure off bony prominences.
In a bed:
1) Reposition every two hours.
2) Cushions, air filled or gel filled can assist for positioning comfortably. Air mattresses may be used if a person cannot move.
3) Be aware of folds in bedding, this may cause friction and shear the skin.
4) Elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees.
5) Protect ankles, heals, hips, elbows and other bony areas with the assistance of pillow placement.
Prevention is key: in order to help prevent pressure ulcers it is essential to change positions and relieve spots that accumulate pressure. When a person is in the same position for more than two hours the bony prominences as well as other areas are at great danger for developing a sore. Here are some ways to prevent pressure sores:
In a wheelchair:
1) Rotate positions as often as the person is able, or about every hour with assistance.
2) Specialized chairs that rotate automatically can assist with this.
3) Foam, gel, water, or air filled cushions may be used to relieve pressure off bony prominences.
In a bed:
1) Reposition every two hours.
2) Cushions, air filled or gel filled can assist for positioning comfortably. Air mattresses may be used if a person cannot move.
3) Be aware of folds in bedding, this may cause friction and shear the skin.
4) Elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees.
5) Protect ankles, heals, hips, elbows and other bony areas with the assistance of pillow placement.