Page 9 - GBGH Patient Handbook
P. 9
KEEPING YOU SAFE DURING YOUR STAY
ADDITIONAL SAFETY MEASURES
PRESSURE ULCER PREVENTION
What can you do to help prevent a pressure ulcer before / during a hospital
stay?
You and your family members are important to the prevention and care of a
pressure wound. You can help by:
1. Keeping skin healthy
• Check your skin – look for changes in colour, temperature, sensation/pain,
moisture, texture, intactness, swelling. Make staff aware of changes
(Staff will also assess your skin routinely)
• Wash and dry thoroughly after bathing, washing and toileting
• Take extra care if you have problems with leaking urine or stool
Use barrier creams
Wash with mild cleaner and warm water
Use absorbent pads or briefs
Pat dry, do not rub
• Keep skin moisturized
• Make sure there are dressings on wounds or problem areas
• Try not to scratch
• Keep clothing and bedding free from creases
2. Let staff know on admission of previous ulcers or concerning areas for you
3. Listening to your body
• Get up for meals
• Get up to use the bathroom
• Stay out of bed if you can
• Re-position as much as possible
• Use pillows to raise your heels off the bed
• Report any pain or discomfort to staff – especially if it’s restricting your
movement
• Use equipment to help move yourself
• Use supportive cushioning aids to relieve/reduce pressure
4. Looking after the inside
• Talk to your team about smoking cessation
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Drink more and keep hydrated
• Eat well and eat enough – make sure you are getting enough calories
and protein
• Keep your blood sugar under control if you have diabetes
• Ask about extra vitamins and minerals
5. Let staff know if you want more information
Exceptional Care, Every Person, Every Time 9
