Pressure ulcers – prevention and skin care

Abstract:

The skin is the largest organ, whose primary purpose is to protect the body and internal organs from negative environmental factors. In advanced age, the skin becomes dry and atrophic, lacking moisture and elasticity. Epidermal, superficial layer of the skin becomes especially thin and dry. It is a physiological condition, which results from reduced functions of the skin, atrophy of the skin glands and changes in collagen and elastic fibres. Pressure ulcers, or decubitus ulcers, often develop in third age persons who have limited mobility or are bedridden. Pressure ulcer is a localized area of necrotic tissue over a bony prominence and occurs as a result of prolonged pressure. How quickly a pressure ulcer can develop depends on the ability of the person to tolerate the pressure on the critical body parts and on the use of various preventive skin care measures. Preventive measures, such as avoiding pressure, friction, shear and extreme moisture, and adequate skin care may considerably delay or completely eliminate the development of pressure ulcers.

Key words:
pressure ulcer; prevention and control, pressure ulcer; skin care