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Pressure ulcer
Pressure ulcer
Pressure sores and their prevention
Contrary to popular belief, pressure ulcers do not affect only older people. Anyone who is bedridden, confined to bed or hospitalised for a long period may be affected. It is therefore essential to screen for and prevent pressure ulcers, especially since these wounds are avoidable!
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What is a pressure ulcer?
Pressure ulcers, also called pressure sores, are lesions of the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure on an area of the body, often over pressure points (heels, sacrum, hips). They generally begin with persistent redness, progressing rapidly—sometimes within a few hours—to deep wounds if the pressure is not relieved and appropriate multidisciplinary care is not provided. Maceration, as well as malnutrition associated with prolonged immobility, worsens their development. Without prompt intervention, they can cause severe pain and serious wounds, and may require complex, intensive and prolonged hospitalisation.
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How can the development of a pressure ulcer be prevented?
There are several early warning signs to watch for to prevent pressure sores from developing or worsening:
- Redness that does not disappear when the skin is pressed gently: this is reversible, but action must be taken quickly!
- Localised pain or discomfort, even if the skin appears intact.
These signs can progress rapidly. If in doubt, it is essential to alert a nurse or doctor immediately.
“Every repositioning, even the slightest, matters: changing position, moving a limb, adjusting a cushion… These are simple actions that can make all the difference,” explains Agathe Ducrocq.
Here are some good practices to follow to prevent pressure sores from developing:
- Regular repositioning (every 2 or 3 hours)
- Use of appropriate preventive surfaces (mattresses, pressure-relieving cushions, sheets, clothing, etc.)
- Daily monitoring of the skin in areas at risk
- Skin hygiene and hydration (particularly in cases of incontinence or hot weather)
- Monitoring of nutritional intake and hydration
- Shared communication and vigilance between carers and healthcare professionals
| In hot weather, it is necessary to cool the patient and change the bedding. This prevents maceration and ensures greater patient comfort. |
How can the worsening of a pressure ulcer be prevented?
Do you think your loved one is developing a pressure ulcer? Don’t panic! The important thing is to act quickly to prevent the pressure ulcer from potentially worsening.
To do so, call without delay:
- Your home nurse (if they are already involved in your care, they are the first person to notify)
- Your general practitioner
- Your pharmacist (trained to provide guidance)
- In the event of a deep wound or deterioration in general condition: call the emergency services
General number: 112
H.U.B Emergency Department: +32 (0)2 555 34 02 or 34 05)
An assessment will make it possible to:
- Determine whether or not it is in fact a pressure ulcer
- Define the stage of progression of the pressure ulcer
- Adapt the care, equipment and positioning
- Put coordinated care in place (nurse, physiotherapist, doctor)
You are not responsible for this situation. You are doing your best. And you are not alone—we are here to help you. |
The H.U.B Pressure Ulcer Screening and Prevention Group (GDPE)
GDPE was created in 2023. It is a multidisciplinary group, established through the quality unit, bringing together nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, doctors, the care support team and dietitians. Our aim is to provide the necessary resources and reach as many people as possible so that pressure-ulcer prevention and screening become second nature, whether you are a doctor, nurse, nursing assistant or carer!
Resources and useful links
Whether you are a caregiver or a healthcare professional, the Pressure Ulcer Screening and Prevention Group provides you with useful resources to prevent the development of a pressure ulcer or stop it from worsening, both in hospital and at home. Of course, if in doubt, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional specialising in the management of this type of wound.
FAQ about pressure ulcers
FAQ about pressure ulcers
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1. Who can develop pressure sores?
Pressure sores can affect anyone who remains in the same position for a long time without moving: people who are bedridden, wheelchair users, hospitalised patients or older people. However, they can also affect younger people in the event of temporary loss of mobility.
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2. What causes pressure ulcers?
Pressure sores are caused by prolonged pressure on certain areas of the body, such as the heels, buttocks or back, but also on less well-known areas, such as behind the ears (glasses, masks), inside the nostrils (tubes), under the arms or between skin folds. This pressure blocks blood circulation, damaging the skin and the underlying tissues. Moisture, friction or poor nutrition can also increase the risk. Overall vigilance is therefore essential, even for small areas of contact.
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3. What are the 4 stages of pressure ulcers?
- Stage 1: Persistent redness of the skin (still reversible if addressed quickly).
- Stage 2: The skin is damaged, sometimes with a blister or a superficial wound.
- Stage 3: The wound becomes deeper, affecting the tissues beneath the skin.
- Stage 4: Severe lesions that may affect muscles, tendons or even bones.
Action must be taken from the first stage to prevent the patient from developing a rapid and painful infection that could require prolonged (re-)hospitalisation.
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4. Do pressure sores heal?
Yes, provided they are treated promptly and correctly. The earlier they are detected, the faster the recovery. Advanced stages require specialised care (wound care and plastic surgery) and may take much longer to heal.
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5. Is a bedsore dangerous?
Yes, especially if it is left untreated. A pressure ulcer can become infected, cause severe pain, lead to serious complications and hospitalisation. This is why prevention and regular monitoring are so important.
