Skin & hair · 10 min
Checking the skin of someone who sits or lies a lot
When someone spends most of the day in a chair or bed, a quick daily look at the skin over the bony places can catch trouble early.
People who sit or lie in one position for long stretches can develop sore areas where the bones press against the skin, such as the tailbone, hips, heels and elbows. These pressure injuries can start small and become serious. Checking daily, gently and with permission, helps spot the early signs.
The steps
Four small steps,in your own time.
Choose a daily moment when the person is already changing or washing, and ask whether you may look at their skin.
In good light, look at the places that take their weight: tailbone and bottom, hips, heels, ankles, elbows, shoulder blades, the back of the head and behind the ears.
Look for skin that stays red or darker after pressure is removed, feels warmer, cooler, firmer or softer than the skin around it, or is blistered or broken. On darker skin, colour changes can be harder to see, so feel for warmth and texture too.
Encourage changes of position through the day and keep the skin clean and dry. Write down anything you notice with the date and tell their nurse or doctor.
The reason
Why it helps
Pressure injuries are much easier to prevent and treat when they are found early. The people who help with washing and dressing are often the first to see the signs. A daily look takes a few minutes and fits into care that is already happening.
A gentle variation
If the person can move, remind and help them shift their weight or stand briefly every hour or so. If they are independent, show them how to check their own heels and elbows with a mirror.
WE · TRIBE
Try itwith someone.
Do this with them, not to them. Explain what you are looking for and why, and keep them covered except for the area you are checking. Ask them to tell you if anywhere feels sore.
Try it today
Today, with permission, look at the skin over the bony places of someone who sits or lies a lot, and note anything red, warm or broken.
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