Question

Ms. Jannicet is an 85-year-old resident in a local long-term care facility. She is very thin and frail and, except for meals, stays in bed most of the day. This puts her at risk for developing pressure ulcers. On what areas of her body would she most likely develop pressure ulcers( name 4 places)? How can they be prevented( Name 4)? (You must answer the two questions)

Answer 1

Pressure ulcer is a result of the excess pressure on the human tissue. The bony prominences of the body experience pressure ulcers, especially those come in contact with the bed while lying down. Hence, Person J will witness pressure ulcers in the following body parts:

• Sacrum

• Elbow

• Hips

• Heels

• Scapula

The following methods prevent the development of pressure ulcers:

• Person J should change her sleeping position frequently.

• She should keep her skin dry.

• She should move her body or perform exercises on bed.

• Person J should use pillows.

Definition of a pressure ulcer:

Pressure ulcer is a result of the excess pressure on the human tissue. The bony prominences of the body experience pressure ulcers, especially those come in contact with the bed while lying down.

Pressure ulcer heals in the following way:

• First, there is inflammatory response.

• Then the capillaries start to fill the gap between edges of the wound. This process will start in one or two days.

• Next process is the formation of granulation tissue. In this process, fibroblasts begin to grow. The collagen will deposit in the fibrous network.

• In the final stage, the collagen contracts and pulls the edges of the wound together. This will result in the formation of scar.