https://ninkatec.com/pressure-sores-causes-prevention-care/
. Risk Factors of Pressure Sores
People who have medical conditions that hamper their normal movement are at the highest risk of developing pressure sores. According to a study, more than 50% of wheelchair users develop pressure sore at some point. It is even more prevalent among bedridden people, affecting up to 80% of those who are cared for at home.
Apart from limited mobility, there are several risk factors that may increase the chance of developing a pressure sore:
Poor nutrition or malnutrition: without sufficient supply of protein and vital nutrients, the body is more prone to injuries and has a harder time to heal wounds. For this reason, caregivers of frail elderlies who are chair or bed bound should pay special attention to preventing pressure sore.
Having bowel or urinary incontinence: urine and feces may further irritate the affected skin.
Excessive moisture or friction: constant perspiration, rubbing on skin, etc may weaken the skin.
Impaired sensation, e.g., due to complications of diabetes: patient may not feel pain and sores grow unnoticed until late stage
Medical conditions that affect blood flow, eg., vascular disease
Obesity or a chronic condition that weakens the body’s overall immune system
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