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Bedsores in Bedridden Patients: Prevention and Care at Home

Bedsores — also called pressure ulcers or pressure injuries — are areas of damaged skin and tissue caused by staying in one position for too long. They are common in people who are bedridden after a stroke, a fracture, a long illness or in old age, and they can develop surprisingly quickly. The good news is that much of the prevention happens through simple, regular care at home.

How Bedsores Form

When the body rests on the same spot for a long time, the pressure reduces blood flow to the skin over bony areas. Friction and moisture — from sweat or incontinence — make the skin more fragile. Poor nutrition and dehydration slow healing.

Where to Look Every Day

Check the skin over bony areas at every change of position, and at least once a day, especially:

• The lower back and tailbone
• The heels and ankles
• The hips
• The shoulder blades and elbows
• The back of the head

An early warning sign is a patch of skin that stays red (or darker than the surrounding skin) and does not fade a short while after pressure is removed. It may feel warmer, firmer or softer than the skin around it.

Daily Care That Helps Prevent Them

• Change position regularly, as often as the nurse or doctor advises — for many patients, every couple of hours, day and night.
• Use the right mattress. An air mattress or other pressure-relieving mattress spreads the body’s weight. A pillow under the calves keeps the heels off the bed, and one between the knees stops them pressing together when the patient lies on their side.
• Keep the skin clean and dry, and change soiled sheets and pads promptly.
• Avoid dragging the patient across the sheet when moving them; lift or use a draw sheet.
• Support nutrition and fluids, as advised by the doctor or dietitian.
• Do not rub or massage red areas, and avoid ring-shaped (“donut”) cushions — both can make the damage worse.

When to Call a Doctor or Nurse

Contact the treating doctor or nurse if the skin breaks, a blister or open wound appears, or a sore gets bigger. Seek medical help promptly if there is pus, a bad smell, spreading redness or fever — these can be signs of infection. Bedsores that have opened need professional wound care.

How Home Nursing Helps

A trained nurse can take care of skin checks and wound dressing; a nurse or attendant can help with positioning and hygiene, and teach the family what to watch for. Equipment such as an air mattress can be rented or bought for home use.

This article is provided for general information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Every patient’s situation is different — please consult a qualified doctor for guidance specific to you. In a medical emergency, seek immediate medical attention.