A pressure sore is defined as a soft tissue necrotic region, as a consequence of compression of tissue between external surfaces and bones.
They are a serous problem for people living in wheelchairs, especially they are old. General opinion is pressure sores are the result of poor nursing care and poor patient compliance. Because some positions are less comfortable than others, the patient must understand is necessary to shift weight, turn over, move to the other hip, whatever, just for avoid the consequences of compression.
Once the patient gets those sores, there are more things to do in order to prevent the pain. One is cushions, maybe several different kinds, for your chair(s). The Roho cushion is hands down the most recommended by people with pressure sores.
Another is changing the seating position often, and sitting correctly with pelvis directly below spine. Patient should get off his butt one way or another in the middle of the day. Another is having a good mattress with a soft non-lumpy surface.
Very useful is to sleep in at least 3 different positions every night, and have someone to help move the patient if he is too stiff. He may need a well placed pillow to keep him on right side.
Clothing makes a difference too. Most jeans have a seam across their back, and when patient is sitting it gets pulled tightly against his body. So, wearing different types of pants on different days is a good option, and when shopping new pants look at the inside part too. |
