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At Auto Injury Home Care Specialists we believe that continuing education and communication are important components to providing excellent and consistent care. We have developed a completely online program allowing our employees to increase their knowledge and stay current learning new ways to improve the care they provide.

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Auto Injury Home Care Specialists


Pressure Sores
In-Service
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1. What Are Pressure Ulcers?

• Definition:

• Also known as bedsores or pressure sores, pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure, friction, or shear.

• Common Locations:

• Areas over bony prominences, such as the sacrum, hips, heels, elbows, and mowing down shoulders.

 

2. Causes and Risk Factors

• Causes:

• Prolonged pressure restricting blood flow.

• Friction (rubbing of the skin against another surface).

• Shear (skin moving in one direction while the underlying tissue moves in another).

• Risk Factors:

• Limited mobility.

• Poor nutrition or dehydration.

• Incontinence (moisture increases skin breakdown).

• Medical conditions affecting circulation or sensation.

 

3. Stages of Pressure Ulcers

1. Stage 1:

• Red, non-blanchable area on intact skin.

• May feel warmer, firmer, or softer than surrounding skin.

2. Stage 2:

• Partial-thickness skin loss, appearing as a blister or shallow open sore.

3. Stage 3:

• Full-thickness tissue loss, exposing fat.

• May have slough or dead tissue.

4. Stage 4:

• Full-thickness skin and tissue loss, exposing muscle, bone, or tendons.

• Often accompanied by infection.

5. Unstageable:

• Covered by slough or eschar, preventing the full extent of the wound from being assessed.

 

4. Prevention Strategies

• Skin Care:

• Keep skin clean and dry.

• Use moisture barrier creams if needed.

• Repositioning:

• Reposition clients every 2 hours or as per care plan.

• Use pillows or foam pads to reduce pressure on bony areas.

• Nutrition:

• Encourage high-protein, vitamin-rich diets to support skin health.

• Proper Use of Equipment:

• Use pressure-relieving devices, such as specialty mattresses or cushions.

 

5. Recognizing and Reporting Pressure Ulcers

• Recognizing Signs:

• Red, discolored, or broken skin.

• Complaints of pain or discomfort in a specific area.

• Foul-smelling drainage or increased warmth around a wound.

• Reporting:

• Document and immediately report any new or worsening ulcers to the supervisor or nurse.

• Include details such as size, location, and appearance.

 

6. Treating Pressure Ulcers

• Follow the care plan provided by the supervising nurse.

• Clean the wound as instructed, using prescribed solutions or dressings.

• Ensure proper hydration and nutrition.

• Avoid using over-the-counter treatments unless directed by a nurse or physician.

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Please take the test below and click submit to complete your In-Service. 

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1. What is a pressure ulcer?
2. Which stage of a pressure ulcer is characterized by full-thickness tissue loss exposing muscle or bone?
3. How often should a client be repositioned to prevent pressure ulcers?
4. What is a key factor in preventing pressure ulcers?
5. When should a caregiver report a suspected pressure ulcer?
Part 2: Scenario-Based Questions

Scenario: Sarah, a home health aide, is caring for Mrs. Thompson, a wheelchair-bound client with diabetes. During her visit, Sarah notices a red area on Mrs. Thompson’s lower back that doesn’t turn white when pressed. Mrs. Thompson says it’s been there for a few days but doesn’t hurt much. Sarah is unsure what to do next.

6. What stage of a pressure ulcer might this red area indicate?
7. Which factor may have contributed to Mrs. Thompson’s pressure ulcer?
8. What is the best way Sarah can help prevent further skin breakdown for Mrs. Thompson?
9. If Mrs. Thompson’s red area worsens, what additional symptom may indicate infection?
I have read and understand the pressure sores in service. By signing and dating below, I am agreeing that I have answered all of the questions honestly and to the best of my ability. If I knowingly provide false information, I understand that I could be terminated and lose my employment with Auto Injury Home Care Specialists

Thank You for Completing

Your In-Service

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