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Infected pressure ulcers in the long-term-care facility
P W Smith1, J M Black, S B Black
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha 68198-5400, USA.
Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology
|June 1, 1999
Summary
Pressure ulcers are common in elderly, debilitated individuals in long-term care. Prevention involves avoiding pressure, ensuring good nutrition, and maintaining meticulous skin care to avoid infections.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pressure ulcers are a significant health concern in elderly, debilitated populations within long-term-care facilities.
- These ulcers lead to increased morbidity and mortality.
- The breakdown of the skin barrier compromises the integumentary system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the frequency and consequences of pressure ulcers in long-term care.
- To emphasize the link between pressure ulcers and deep skin and soft-tissue infections.
- To outline key preventive strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and clinical observations regarding pressure ulcer development.
- Analysis of factors contributing to pressure ulcer formation and infection.
- Identification of effective preventive measures.
Main Results:
- Pressure ulcers frequently affect the elderly and debilitated in long-term care settings.
- Infections secondary to pressure ulcers are often deep and require extensive treatment.
- Prevention is achievable through pressure avoidance, adequate nutrition, and diligent skin care.
Conclusions:
- Pressure ulcers pose a serious threat to the health and survival of vulnerable elderly patients.
- Effective prevention strategies are crucial to mitigate the incidence and complications of pressure ulcers.
- Multifaceted preventive approaches, including pressure relief, nutritional support, and meticulous skin care, are essential.