WOUND CARE: PRESSURE INJURIES/ULCERS
PROBLEMS
You have an ulcer on the body that lies over a bony surface.
CAUSE
Causes include prolonged periods of pressure to the area of the ulcer, causing a breakdown of skin integrity.
PREVENTION/CARE
A.Keep the area clean and free of foreign debris.
B.You may be prescribed dressing changes:
1.Remove dressing.
2.Clean the ulcer with normal saline.
3.Apply prescribed medication (see as follows).
4.Cover with dry dressing; change as ordered.
C.You may be prescribed antibiotics; if so, take all antibiotics until they are completely gone.
Activity: Do not apply direct pressure to the site of the ulcer.
Diet: Eat a well-balanced diet. Drink eight to 10 glasses of water per day. Increase protein intake.
Medications:
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.A reaction or cannot tolerate any of the prescribed medications.
B.A fever and a general ill feeling.
C.Any new or unexplained symptoms:
1.Increase in size.
2.New odor.
3.Increased drainage.
4.Change in color of the drainage.
5.Increased pain at the site.
D.Any questions or concerns.
Phone: ____________________________
RESOURCE
National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel
1000 Potomac Street NW
Suite 108
Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-521-6789
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE