It is important that you understand the various stages of pressure ulcer development. Inspecting the skin for early signs of an ulcer is critical for prevention.
If a pressure ulcer is beginning to develop, your speedy response to the warning signs can prevent the development of a much more difficult wound.
When the early signs of a pressure ulcer are detected – even though you have carried out the instructions you were given – there may be a worsening of the condition before it gets better.
To ensure early detection and treatment, report any of the following to your nurse or physician:
- Reddened skin areas
- Blisters on the skin
- Rashes or skin inflammation
- Dry or rough skin
- Drainage or pus
- Bruises on the skin
- Pain or soreness
- Breaks or sores on the skin
- Scabs
- Swelling anywhere on the skin
- Loss of appetite
- White areas of the skin that are sore to the touch
IF YOU ARE A CAREGIVER
This book focuses on the needs of people who, for one reason or another, may be prone to skin problems. You may be cooperating with a medical team in the treatment of skin conditions such as pressure ulcers and you may have become quite knowledgeable concerning the many practical aspects of treatment. On the other hand, you may be in the situation where you have a loved one who’s been assessed as being at risk of developing such problems and you simply want to help prevent this from happening.
In any caregiving procedure, the focus is naturally on the patient, perhaps to the emotional detriment of the caregiver. You have to ensure that you do not become a victim of the situation. As a caregiver, you can be consumed by ever-increasing demands on your time and capacity, and over a long period of time the process can be extremely stressful and emotionally draining.
Because of this, we suggest you try to abide by the following general principles:
Encourage independence on the part of your patient.
It is as important that your patient uses as much of his or her capabilities as possible. You need to strike a delicate balance of providing help when needed without inhibiting the self-reliance so vital for a person’s morale, dignity and overall physical and mental health.
Take care of yourself.
You will be less effective as a caregiver if you neglect yourself. You must be especially aware of negative stress and take time to relax and do the things you enjoy. Inevitably, there will be conflict. It can be difficult to maintain a calm demeanor at all times and nobody expects you to do so. Instead of repressing your feelings when things get difficult, try to share them with others.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
There are organizations, products, trained specialists and other resources available to help share the burden. Keep an open mind when seeking help, and don’t feel like a “failure” for doing so. We have included a list of resources at the end of this book.
