Who is at risk for bedsores (Pressure sores)?

Condition analysis:
People who have restricted or limited movement are at the greatest risk of developing pressure sores. For example, those who use a wheelchair or are confined to bed are at greater risk. For those who use wheelchairs, pressure sores can develop on the tailbone, buttocks, shoulders, spine, arms, or legs. Beyond resident immobility, urinary incontinence or chronic voiding dysfunction, and chronic or end stage renal, liver, or heart disease.

There is also test results and objective data points that can indicate risk. Serum albumin below 3.4 g/dl, weight loss of more than 10% during last month and Hgb less than 12 mg per dl are all warning signs. Malnutrition and dehydration are huge risk factors. They include pale skin, dry or swollen tongue, red or swollen lips, swollen and, poor skin turgor, bilateral edema, muscle wasting, calf tenderness, or reduced urinary output.

The overwhelming majority our law firm's bed sore cases are nursing home cases. In nursing homes, around 12.5% of individuals with mobility impairments, malnourishment, or who are in a coma experience pressures sores. Luckily, that number goes down to 2.5% for those who do not suffer from those conditions. But the reality is that no one should be getting a Stage III or beyond pressure sore. When patients and nursing home residents do, it is likely that the cause is negligence by a health care or nursing home care provider.

Instructions:
Honey: This miracle substance has played a role in accelerated skin healing and wound care for centuries. Honey also acts as a skin moisturizer. The antiseptic qualities help prevent and treat infections. Add honey to a gauze bandage or pad, and place on a bedsore. Change the honey dressing at least once every 24 hours. Improved results are typically seen within one week and 10 days.