Maintaining or improving the ability to move around is one of the most effective ways to minimize the risk of developing bed sores, pressure ulcers also known as decubitus ulcers. People who are not confined to bed should be encouraged to move from bed to chair and to stand and walk. Attention to posture, balance, and weight distribution (eg, shifting weight every 15 minutes) can help people when sitting. People who are bedbound can still benefit from various exercises that put their joints through a range of motion.
Bedbound people should be repositioned frequently to relieve pressure over bony areas. How often someone should be repositioned depends on the person's health and the quality of the supporting surface (eg, some beds are designed to decrease the pressure on bony areas of the body). Older adults at risk of developing pressure ulcers should be repositioned at least every 2 hours.
People who are likely to develop pressure ulcers should be repositioned often, changing from the back to their right side and then to their left side, keeping the back at a 30° angle to the bed surface. This avoids direct pressure on the bony areas of the lower back, hips, heels, and ankles-the sites where 80% of all pressure ulcers develop.
Although elderly residents are awarded certain nursing home rights, some facilities, either unknowingly or intentionally, may violate these basic rights. If you suspect your loved one is being abused in a nursing home or otherwise deprived of their nursing home resident rights, such as bed sores, dehydration, malnutrition, infection, under staffing, physical abuse, you should immediately contact us toll free at 1.866.999.9085 or on-line at www.thepecklawgroup.com for a free thorough case review and evaluation. This case review is being offered at no cost and shall help determine whether you should take legal action on behalf of your elder / dependent adult loved one. We Will Help You!!
