Pressure Ulcer Issues

Pressure Ulcer Issues

Kristina Tucker

HCA 375

Kevin LaChapelle

July 9, 2013

When we find an enclosed damage to our skin as well as tissue that is usually over the skeletal protuberance caused by some sort of pressure, we call it a pressure ulcer. This may be caused by some sort of pressurized rubbing or cut. This type of ulcer is of chronic type that inherently carries impaired healing at physiological level. In this paper I am going to discuss the prevention measures of this ulcer and treatment options.

Williams, 1992 states that pressure ulcer occurs where there is poor level of nursing care for a long term basis but it is also found with hospitals that offer severe care. We know that a sore healing needs conditions of dietary aspects and it can be reversed. There have been several studies made that conclude that a pressure ulcer may be healed efficiently if there is dietary protein supplied. Any type of measure that helps dehydrate the ulcerous sore is helpful. For example, air exposure, warm lamps, parched gauze and liquid antacids are helpful in the healing process. These are needed to treat chronic wounds. The worst problems are sepsis and osteomyelitis.

When pressure over the skin causes blood to flow less, the ulcer occurs. As there is lack of blood, the skin starts to die. So the ulcer occurs. Bluestein, 2008 explains that when someone stays on a wheelchair or in bed for a long time, the ulcer may occur. It occurs with older people also. People with vascular disease, diabetes or fragile skin can have this ulcer. There are several symptoms of the ulcer: skin rashes getting worse, blister formation on skin and open cuts. Bluestein, 2008 suggests some options to prevent this ulcer. The pressure area should be relieved. Specialized cushions should be used. Sheep skin can also be used to alleviate pressure. The patient should look after the sores as directed by the health professionals. The ulcer should be cleaned as directed and this should be done accordingly as otherwise it may hurt. It should not be rubbed or scratched as this can do great damage to the skin.

Some argue that pressure ulcer is completely preventable while some others debate about it. We cannot say for sure if it is totally preventable. Thomas 2001 mentions that in case of forceful prevention of pressure ulcer we get the so called floor effect in action. Yes, it can be reduced to a level but it is not guaranteed that it will not occur. We may get more data about the floor effect condition as there have been experiments of forbidden trails to see the effects of preventable measures. Pressure ulcer may be caused by poor quality care but this is not the cause for every case. For some patients the pressure ulcer can be prevented