Bed Sore Treatment

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Bed sores in the early stages (1 or 2) can usually be treated, and healing of the skin occurs within several weeks.  However, once bed sores progress to more advanced stages, treatment and healing become more difficult and can lead to complications.  The specific treatment of a bed sore will depend on the stage to which the sore has progressed.  Treatment of a bed sore is best undertaken by a physician or wound care specialist who will conduct an assessment not only at the site of the sore, but of the patient as well.

Possible treatments of bed sores can include the following measures list below for each stage of wound.

•  Relieve the pressure from the site of the sore – reposition frequently.
• Maintain good hygiene – keep the skin area clean by gently washing with soap and water and pat dry.  Do not rub over the wound site.
• Review the mattress, chair or wheelchair cushion, for a possible cause to the pressure.  Additionally review transfers, pressure releases and turning techniques.
• Review that nutritional requirements are being met to ensure good skin health.

•  Relieve the pressure from the site of the sore – reposition frequently.
• Cleanse the wound with water or saline solution and pat dry.  A thin foam dressing or saline dampened gauze may be applied to the wound.  The dressings should be changed frequently.
• Review for signs of infection and notify a health care provider.

•  Treatment steps similar to those of stage 2 should be followed.
• Special wound cleaning and debridement may be necessary.
• Topical and/or oral antibiotics may be required.
• Use of specialized support surfaces for bedding and chairs may be ordered to assist with relieving pressure points.  These specialized supports can include foam devices, air-filled devices, water-filled devices, gel-filled devices, and pressure relieving mattresses.

Surgical repair is frequently required for this stage of bed sore.