Decubitus Ulcers (Pressure sores)
Decubitus ulcers, also known as pressure sores, are caused by prolonged pressure from the weight of the patient. Debilitated or paraplegic people, nursing home residents, and people with neurologic disorders are at increased risk of pressure sores. They typically occur over bony prominences. Common sites include; sacrum, greater tuberosity, and ischial tuberosity. Heels, elbows, and back can be involved as well. Decubitus ulcers, if left untreated, can become necrotic, and secondary bacterial infection can occur. Prevention is most important, patients should be turned and repositioned every 2 hours. Nowadays, special mattresses and beds are designed to reduce local tissue pressure by distributing it more evenly. Treatment options include; local wound care, wet-to-dry dressings or wound gel for deeper ulcers, and surgical debridement of necrotic tissue along with antibiotics if there is evidence of infection.
When they begin they start with discoloration and progress to these sores through various stages from the discoloration being unstageable and then a 1 to 4 grading . Some other treatments may also include application of a woundvac to keep clean and promote healing.
apart from the ulcer...other signs and symptoms in such a patient are?
