Health Tip: Prevent Bed Sores

(HealthDay News) -- Bed sores are injuries to the skin caused by a lack of blood supply to the area. They often occur in people who are unable to move themselves due to injury or illness.

To prevent painful and potentially dangerous bed sores in a person who is immobile or cannot sense pain, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that a caretaker:

• Check the skin carefully and regularly for areas that are red or irritated.
• Move and turn the patient often, into different positions that will distribute pressure on the skin.
• Keep the bed or wheelchair well-padded.
• Wash and dry the skin regularly.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Oct. 12, 2006

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