Understanding Pressure Ulcers: A Journey Beneath the Skin
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or pressure sores, can be painful; they can also lead to other problems. Pressure ulcers happen when people spend a long time in a bed or chair, or are unable to change positions often. Here, we will explain how pressure ulcers develop and how this research will help patients, carers, and healthcare workers to prevent and treat pressure ulcers.
The NHS defines a pressure ulcer as ‘areas of damage to your skin and the tissue underneath.’ You have a higher chance of getting them if you have difficulty moving. Further information on pressure ulcers can be found on the NHS webpages – Pressure ulcers (pressure sores) – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Pressure ulcers have a big impact on an individuals’ quality of life, they can be very serious in nature and lead to pain and social isolation. Below is a video explaining some of the causes of pressure ulcers and the impact they have on patients lives.
Stages of pressure ulcer development
Pressure ulcers develop in stages, each more severe than the last:
Risk factors and prevention
People have a higher chance of developing pressure ulcers if they:
- have problems moving
- have had a pressure ulcer before
- have been seriously ill in intensive care or have recently had surgery
- are underweight
- have swollen, sweaty, or broken skin
- have poor circulation, or easily delicate and easily damaged skin
- have problems feeling sensation or pain
Pressure ulcers can occur quickly in some instances, whereas in other cases they can take days to form.
Prevention focuses on regular position changes, supporting skin hygiene, ensuring proper nutrition, and using support surfaces like specialised mattresses or cushions.
Prevention is better – SEAMLESS – Continuous Pressure Monitoring Research
Our research project SEAMLESS (2023-2026) aims to create Intelligent Sensing to Promote Self-management of Posture and Mobility in community homes for people. The project will use the principals of working together to develop a new sensing technology which can support self-management strategies to help good posture, movement, and pressure ulcer prevention.
The new SEAMLESS project will build on a previous project ‘PROMISE’ – click to see video. Here we were able to show that through monitoring pressures between the individual and their cushion or mattress they have been able to effectively communicate when the individual has been less mobile. The technology has also been used to ensure that the type of cushion or mattress the individual uses to support their health meets their needs. This has helped improve understanding of the risks of being less mobile and supported individualised care.