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Decubitus (Pressure) Ulcer Care

Localised tissue damage that develops on bony prominences in immobile patients due to pressure and shear forces.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Decubitus (Pressure) Ulcer Care?

Decubitus ulcers (pressure injury) are localised tissue damage developing in skin and underlying tissues due to pressure, shear and friction forces, especially over bony prominences.

Most commonly seen on sacrum, ischial tuberosities, greater trochanter, calcaneus and occiput.

Stages: Stage I (intact skin, non-blanchable erythema), Stage II (partial-thickness loss), Stage III (full-thickness, fat tissue), Stage IV (muscle, tendon, bone exposure), unstageable and deep tissue damage.

Symptoms

Skin redness that does not blanch with pressure
Pain, burning or itching feeling on the skin
Bullae and skin loss (Stage II)
Crater-like wound and yellow-black slough (Stage III-IV)
Foul odour and exudate (infection sign)
Surrounding cellulitis, fever (deep infection)

Risk Factors

Immobility (intensive care, paralysis, advanced age)
Diabetes and peripheral vascular disease
Malnutrition and hypoalbuminaemia (less than 3.5)
Urinary-faecal incontinence and skin maceration
Cognitive impairment and dementia
Spinal cord injury and neurological diseases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Stage III-IV ulcers require wound care specialist
  • Spreading erythema, fever and pus suggest infection
  • Slow-healing wound mandates surgical consultation
  • Necessity of multidisciplinary team approach

Treatment Methods

01
Repositioning every two hours and air mattress use
02
Adequate protein and calorie nutrition (1.25 to 1.5 g/kg/day protein)
03
Wound cleaning (saline, no iodine, no chlorhexidine)
04
Necrotic tissue debridement (mechanical, autolytic, enzymatic)
05
Moist wound dressing (hydrocolloid, foam, alginate)
06
Negative pressure wound therapy (in deep wound, VAC)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.