STOP Pressure Ulcers Day is an annual global awareness campaign dedicated to reducing and preventing the occurrence of pressure ulcers. Held on the third Thursday of November each year, it serves as a reminder for healthcare professionals, caregivers, and individuals alike to take proactive measures in pressure ulcer prevention.

Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, can develop when a person remains in one position for a prolonged period, causing excessive pressure on certain areas of the body. These ulcers can be debilitating, leading to pain, infection, and even life-threatening complications.

On STOP Pressure Ulcers Day , various initiatives are organized to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, proper nutrition, and the use of specialized equipment such as pressure-relieving cushions and mattresses.

The day serves as a call to action for everyone involved in caregiving to implement best practices and ensure that those at risk of pressure ulcers receive the necessary care and interventions. Together, we can make a difference and prevent the needless suffering caused by pressure ulcers.

What is Pressure Ulcers ?

Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or pressure sores, are injuries that occur on the skin and underlying tissues due to prolonged pressure and/or friction. They typically develop in areas where bones are close to the skin surface, such as the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone. Pressure ulcers are a serious medical concern, especially for individuals with limited mobility or who spend long periods in bed or in a wheelchair.

These ulcers can be extremely painful and disrupt the normal flow of daily life. They are most likely to affect older adults, individuals with underlying health conditions, and those who are unable to change positions easily or maintain good skin hygiene. Pressure ulcers progress in stages, starting with redness or discoloration of the skin, and can progress to open wounds, tissue damage, and even infection if left untreated.

Prevention of pressure ulcers is crucial, and it involves various measures such as regular repositioning to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the skin, providing proper nutrition and hydration, and using specialized equipment like pressure-relieving mattresses or cushions.

For individuals who have developed pressure ulcers, treatment focuses on alleviating pain, promoting wound healing, and preventing further complications. This often involves keeping the affected area clean, removing dead tissue, applying appropriate dressings, and using techniques such as debridement or negative pressure therapy.

Pressure ulcers can have significant physical, emotional, and financial implications for both patients and healthcare systems. It is essential to raise awareness about this issue, ensure that preventative measures are taken, and educate healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the general public about the importance of early detection, proper care, and the implementation of best practices in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers.

What can cause pressure ulcer ?

Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or pressure sores, can develop due to a variety of factors and conditions. The primary cause of pressure ulcers is prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body. When there is continuous pressure on a particular part of the body, it can restrict blood flow to the area and damage the skin and underlying tissues.

Some common causes of pressure ulcers include immobility, which can result from conditions such as paralysis, bedridden status, or prolonged periods of being confined to a wheelchair. When individuals are unable to change positions or relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, it increases the risk of developing pressure ulcers.

Friction and shearing forces can also contribute to the development of pressure ulcers. Friction occurs when the skin rubs against another surface, such as a bedsheet or clothing. Shearing forces, on the other hand, happen when the skin slides in one direction while the underlying structures slide in the opposite direction, stretching and damaging the blood vessels and tissues.

Other factors that can increase the risk of pressure ulcers include poor nutrition, dehydration, and compromised skin integrity. Malnutrition and dehydration can weaken the skin and make it more susceptible to damage. Similarly, individuals with fragile or thin skin, or those with pre-existing skin conditions, are more prone to developing pressure ulcers.

Additional risk factors include advanced age, reduced sensory perception, certain medical conditions like diabetes or vascular disease, and certain medications that can impair blood flow or sensation.

It is crucial to identify and address these risk factors to prevent the development of pressure ulcers. Regular monitoring, repositioning, maintaining proper nutrition and hydration, and using specialized equipment to relieve pressure are important measures to prevent pressure ulcers. Education and awareness about these risk factors can help healthcare providers and caregivers take proactive steps to protect individuals at risk.

Using SSKIN to prevent skin damage

SSKIN is an acronym that stands for Surface, Skin Inspection, Keep Turning, Incontinence and Moisture, and Nutrition. It is a comprehensive approach used in healthcare settings to prevent skin damage, specifically pressure ulcers. By following the SSKIN protocol, healthcare providers and caregivers can effectively minimize the risk of pressure ulcers and promote skin health.

S - Surface
S - Skin Inspection
K - Keep Turning
IN - Incontinence

The first step in SSKIN is Surface, which focuses on providing a suitable support surface for individuals. This includes using pressure-reducing mattresses, cushions, or overlays that distribute pressure evenly and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. The choice of surface should take into account factors like the individual's mobility level, weight, and existing skin conditions.

Skin Inspection is the next component of SSKIN and involves regularly monitoring the condition of the skin. By conducting thorough skin assessments, healthcare providers and caregivers can identify early signs of skin damage, such as redness, discoloration, or skin breakdown. Regular inspection allows for prompt treatment and intervention to prevent the progression of skin damage.

Keep Turning emphasizes the importance of regularly changing the individual's position to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas. This involves repositioning the individual at regular intervals throughout the day and providing proper support and padding to reduce friction and shear forces. Changing positions helps to maintain healthy blood flow and prevent prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body.

Incontinence and Moisture management is another critical aspect of SSKIN. When skin is exposed to moisture, such as from incontinence or perspiration, it becomes more susceptible to damage and breakdown. Proper hygiene practices, regular cleansing, and the use of moisture-absorbing products can help keep the skin dry and reduce the risk of skin damage.

The final component of SSKIN is Nutrition. Adequate nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. A well-balanced diet with sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals supports the body's ability to heal and maintain the integrity of the skin. Ensuring individuals receive proper nutrition can contribute to their overall skin health and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.

By implementing the SSKIN protocol, healthcare professionals and caregivers can create a proactive and comprehensive approach to prevent skin damage. This holistic approach addresses the key factors that contribute to pressure ulcer development and promotes optimal skin health for individuals under their care.

DID YOU KNOW ?

 Source- NHS and google.

Pressure ulcers cost the NHS a staggering £3.8 million every day. 

These costs, both financial and human, highlight the significant impact that pressure ulcers have on our healthcare system. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, not only cause immense pain and suffering to patients but also result in substantial financial burdens on the healthcare system.

The cost of pressure ulcers arises from various factors. Firstly, the treatment and management of pressure ulcers require a considerable amount of resources, including medical professionals, specialized equipment, dressings, and medications. Healthcare providers need to invest in skilled nursing care, wound care specialists, and even surgical interventions in severe cases. These expenses quickly add up and contribute to the overall cost of pressure ulcer management.

The financial burden is further amplified by the prolonged hospital stays often required for patients with pressure ulcers. These individuals may experience complications, such as infections or sepsis, which necessitate extended hospitalization and intensive medical care. The longer a patient stays in the hospital, the greater the strain on healthcare resources and costs incurred by the NHS.

Pressure ulcers also have indirect costs associated with them. Patients who develop pressure ulcers often face a decline in their overall health and well-being, leading to a loss of productivity and increased reliance on healthcare services. Additionally, pressure ulcers can impact patients' quality of life, causing physical discomfort, emotional distress, and social isolation, all of which may require additional support and interventions.

Reducing the financial burden of pressure ulcers on the NHS requires a multifaceted approach. Prevention is key - implementing effective pressure ulcer prevention strategies, educating healthcare providers, and raising awareness among patients and caregivers are crucial steps. By focusing on prevention, the number of pressure ulcers can be significantly reduced, leading to fewer hospital admissions and decreased healthcare costs.

Moreover, early detection and prompt treatment of pressure ulcers are essential to prevent complications and reduce lengthy hospital stays. Investing in sufficient training for healthcare professionals and providing them with the necessary resources and specialized equipment can lead to better outcomes and cost savings in the long run.

The significant cost of pressure ulcers to the NHS serves as a reminder of the importance of prevention, early detection, and appropriate management. By addressing this issue proactively, we can help alleviate the financial burden on the healthcare system and, more importantly, improve the well-being and quality of life for patients affected by pressure ulcers.

On Stop Pressure Ulcers Day, it is essential to highlight the role that different types of pressure care cushions can play in preventing pressure ulcers. These cushions are specifically designed to distribute pressure evenly and reduce the risk of skin breakdown and tissue damage for individuals who may be at increased risk of developing pressure ulcers.

Choosing the right pressure care cushion depends on several factors, including the individual's level of mobility, body shape, and specific pressure points at risk. It is important to involve healthcare professionals in the selection process to ensure the most appropriate cushion is chosen.

Read more > Applications of Positioning and Pressure Care Products

On Stop Pressure Ulcers Day, let us emphasize the benefits of pressure care cushions as an integral part of pressure ulcer prevention strategies. By providing individuals with the right cushioning support, we can alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas, reduce the risk of pressure ulcers, and ultimately improve the overall well-being and quality of life for those at risk.