Pressure injuries (bedsores)
Pressure injuries form where the body presses against a bed or chair. With the right care, many heal without a hospital stay.
How we help
A pressure injury — also called a bedsore or pressure ulcer — is damage to the skin and tissue caused by constant pressure, often on the heels, hips, tailbone or back of the head. They range from red, unbroken skin (stage 1) to deep wounds (stages 3 and 4), and some are hidden under dead tissue.
Treatment starts with taking pressure off the area. Our clinicians stage the wound, remove dead tissue when appropriate, choose dressings, use wound vac therapy for deep wounds, and work with caregivers and facility staff on repositioning, support surfaces and nutrition.
Who it helps
- Patients who spend most of the day in bed or a wheelchair
- Skilled nursing and assisted living residents
- Patients recovering at home after a hospital stay
- Anyone with a wound on the heel, hip or tailbone
Your visit, step by step
Staging
The injury is staged and measured, and risk factors are reviewed.
Pressure relief
A repositioning and support-surface plan for the patient.
Treatment
Debridement, dressings or wound vac as needed.
Prevention
Teaching for caregivers and staff to protect the skin.
Common questions
Can a stage 4 pressure injury heal at home?
Many deep pressure injuries improve with consistent care at home. If surgery may be needed, we coordinate with the physician.
How often should a patient be repositioned?
Often — commonly every two hours in bed. We set a plan that fits the patient.
Why do bedsores keep coming back?
Pressure, moisture and nutrition are usually the cause. Prevention is part of every care plan.