Oak Valley Health’s patient education pages share the skills, knowledge, and habits patients and families need to know to cope with a daily health issue. We hope this information can influence patient behaviour to improve health outcomes and provide you with a sense of control and autonomy.
Learn more about the risks, causes, and treatment of pressure injuries
A wound caused by prolonged pressure that damages the skin and the tissue underneath. Causes can include, not being able to move independently, an unbalanced diet, poor skin health, and more.
Pressure injuries commonly occur in bony areas, such as heels, elbows, and tailbones.
Prolonged periods of sitting or lying down can increase the risk of developing pressure injuries on bony areas. Medical devices, like oxygen tubing, and feeding/breathing tubes, can also cause pressure injuries.
Look for reddened skin in those with lighter complexions or a purple/blue discoloration for those with darker skin tones. Pressure injuries may or may not be painful.
Pressure injuries can progress quickly, especially for individuals who are critically ill.
Change positions often, both lying, and sitting
Place pillows between knees and/or ankles to prevent rubbing
Use pillows under the calves to keep heels from touching the mattress. Note: Be cautious as this could lead to knee contractures. Alternatively, consider using a heel protector boot
To prevent shearing, prevent sliding down in a chair or bed. Try to keep the head of the bed elevated at no more than 30 degrees where possible
Create and use a turning schedule
A pressure injury can develop within minutes to several hours, depending on the source of the pressure, the location of the pressure, as well as the individual’s overall health.
Reposition your body every two to four hours while in bed
Shift your weight every 15 minutes if possible while sitting in a chair
Work with a dietitian to determine what to eat and drink to help pressure injuries heal
Communicate with your health care team if you are experiencing discomfort or pain over your pressure injury
Use lifting devices to help transfer a person to bed, chair or when changing positions
Keep the skin and bony areas free from rubbing on surfaces
An individual’s nurse, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, or doctor can provide guidance on proper transfer techniques
The use of pressure-reducing devices does not replace an appropriate schedule for regularly repositioning someone
Some of these may include:
Adopting a regular exercise routine
Consuming balanced meals/drinks
Reducing pressure on the injury
Monitoring and keeping your health care team informed of any changes