Bed sore prevention: what families get wrong

Why they form so fast

A bed sore forms when constant pressure cuts off blood supply to skin over a bony area — the tailbone, heels, hips, elbows and the back of the head. On a frail patient this can begin in under two hours of lying in one position.

The first sign is a patch of skin that stays red after the pressure is relieved. At that stage it is still reversible. Once the skin breaks, healing takes weeks and infection becomes a real risk.

The two-hourly rule

Reposition the patient at least every two hours, including at night. Alternate between left side, back and right side, using pillows to hold the position and to keep the knees and ankles from pressing against each other.

This is the single most effective prevention measure, and it is also the one families most often let slip overnight when everyone is asleep.

Keep the skin dry and inspected

Moisture from sweat or incontinence softens skin and accelerates breakdown. Change soiled bedding immediately, pat the skin dry rather than rubbing, and avoid heavy talcum which cakes in skin folds.

Inspect the pressure points every single day in good light. Ask the caregiver to report any redness rather than waiting for it to resolve.

Equipment that helps

An alternating-pressure air mattress redistributes weight automatically and is worth renting for any patient likely to be bedridden for more than a few weeks. Heel protectors and a proper hospital bed with adjustable height make repositioning far easier on the caregiver's back too.