If you’re a loyal believe@Magee reader, you have heard us talk about skin care… a lot. That’s because it is incredibly important! Today is World Wide Pressure Ulcer Prevention Day, which gives us yet another reason to promote proper skin care. A pressure ulcer is an injury to the skin and underlying tissue that occurs when prolonged pressure is placed on the area. It’s most likely to develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, including the hips and buttocks, putting wheelchair users at increased risk.
Pressure ulcers can happen fast… and they can really set you back. But they good news is they are totally preventable! Here are 5 easy ways wheelchair users can prevent pressure ulcers.
HYDRATE. Water is critical to keeping the skin healthy. Minimize the use of alcohol.
LOOK. Visually check your skin twice every day to make sure there are no problems. When redness is seen on the surface of the skin, check for blanching, remove pressure from the area, and monitor the area for changes. Use a skin inspection mirror to see all areas.
PROTECT. Using the proper seating equipment distributes pressure evenly. Choose a good bed support surface. Use skin moisturizers. Manage incontinence.
EAT HEALTHY. Protein is the most important nutritional food group for wound healing. Maintain a healthy body weight. Consider nutritional supplements.
DON’T SMOKE. It constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow to your body tissues. It also increased the risk for burns.
Develop good daily habits and reliable regular routines. Protect your skin and focus on staying healthy for the rest of your life! And if you need a weight shift refresher, check out the video below. Funny? Yes. Informative? Absolutely!
