Being on bed rest is already hard enough -- and while you lie there helpless, you're also vulnerable to bedsores. Bedsores develop when a person spends too much time in the same position. These pressure ulcers can also develop if the skin becomes sweaty or dirty or if there is too much friction between body parts. In order to effectively prevent bedsores, the bedridden patient should have a strategy in mind prior to beginning bed rest that allows them to move around and readjust positioning from time to time. Getting help from a loved one or a caretaker may be necessary if the patient can't move too well. Here are a few commonly asked questions about preventing bedsores.
Bedsores are named that because that's where most people are when they begin to develop. But if a patient spends a lot of time in a wheelchair or any other place where constant pressure is applied to specific body parts, then a pressure ulcer becomes possible.
If a patient is stuck in bed and can't move without assistance, the best solution is to use a loved one's assistance, but that loved one might not always be around. Fortunately, specialty pillows and other devices can help patients move slightly if they have sufficient arm strength. A trapeze bar is one such device that might help.
Parts of the body that are more bony are more prone to pressure ulcers. Patients can also use cushions if needed to provide extra protection.
Bedridden patients can use talcum powder if they would like to apply a substance directly to the skin. If the skin is already dry, apply some skin lotion, but don't apply lotion if a bed sore has already developed.
In order to keep the skin dry and clean, the patient should change clothes regularly. If possible, the bedsheets should also be changed periodically. Inspect the skin every day for signs of trouble and contact a doctor if needed.
Eating a healthy diet can also help prevent bedsores, as proper nourishment promotes healthy skin and reduces weight gain. Be sure to get enough vitamin C and zinc. Staying hydrated is also important. Increase water intake if the patient experiences dry mouth, dry skin or constipation.
Various cushions filled with gel and water can help encourage movement and prevent bedsores. Maintaining proper ergonomics is the key to keeping bed sores at bay.
Smoking is bad for a patient's health under any circumstance but it can be an especially bad choice while on bed rest. The smoke can dry out the skin and help create exactly the kind of environment that bedsores thrive upon.