What is a pressure injury?

A pressure injury is an area of skin that is red, broken or blistered that can develop on a bony part of the body because of pressure, friction and/or moisture.

Pressure injuries may develop on bony parts of the body such as heels, hips, the bottom and/or elbows.

They may also develop under medical devices such as splints, braces, catheters and drains.

Pressure injuries can be small grazes or deeper wounds that may need to be covered with a bandage or dressing.

Am I at risk of pressure injuries?

You may be at risk of pressure injuries if you have one or more of the following.

You:

• are unwell
• are confined to a bed or chair
• are elderly or very young
• are unable to walk
• are having an operation or long procedure
• have loss of feeling or poor circulation, especially in your feet and heels
• have problems with your nutrition
• have moist skin from sweating a lot or from problems with your bladder or bowel.

How do I reduce my risk of pressure injuries?

Stay active

• Pressure injuries can happen quickly if you lie or sit in the same position for too long.
• If you are confined to bed or chair and unable to move, staff or your carer can help you change your position.
• You can help by turning from side to side in your bed or going for short walks.
• Avoid sliding or dragging yourself across any surface such as the bed as this can cause rubbing and skin damage.
• Exercise as much as you comfortably can.

Skin care

• Check your skin daily.
• Keep your skin clean and dry.
• You may need to clean your skin often if you sweat a lot or have problems with your bladder or bowel.
• Use a skin friendly cleanser and a moisturiser.
• Tell us about any discomfort.

Nutrition

• Eat a balanced diet that includes fruit, vegetables, meat, chicken, fish, rice and grains.
• You may need to take a vitamin and/or start having nutritional drinks.
• Have plenty to drink unless we tell you not to.
• Stop smoking (if you would like help to quit smoking you can phone the Quitline on 13 78 48).

In your home

• You may need follow up care
  from a community nurse or
  health professional.
• You may need a special mattress, bed and cushion.

Do you want to know more?

Ask your nurse or health professional.

Contact:

Canberra Hospital
Phone: (02) 5124 0000

North Canberra Hospital
Phone: (02) 5103 6111