Preventing pressure Ulcers

Please tell us if you have any diarrhoea that is not usual for you. We may require a sample to send to the laboratory for testing.

We also encourage you to help us to keep our hospital clean and put things away so that cleaning can take place more easily.

Preventing pressure ulcers in hospital

A pressure ulcer (sometimes called bed sore or pressure sore) is damage to the skin and the deeper layer of tissue under the skin. This happens when pressure is applied to the same area over a period of time which cuts off its blood supply. You are more at risk of developing a pressure ulcer if you stay in bed or a chair for long periods of time or have damage to the skin from sliding or slumping down a bed or chair.

You and your carers can help prevent skin damage by the SSKIN approach

SKIN INSPECTION – means early detection SURFACE – having the right support surface KEEP MOVING regularily helps to prevent pressure ulcers INCONTINENCE keep skin clean and dry NUTRITION – eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids