Preventing Pressure Injuries (Pressure Ulcers)
Looking after your skin to help prevent pressure injuries.
Pressure injuries (sometimes called pressure ulcers, pressure sores or bed sores) are areas of damage to the skin and the tissue underneath caused by prolonged pressure.
They can develop quickly if pressure is not relieved, but many pressure injuries can be prevented through regular movement, skin care and early recognition of warning signs.
What is a Pressure Injury?
A pressure injury occurs when prolonged pressure reduces the blood supply to the skin and underlying tissues, causing damage.
Pressure injuries most commonly develop over bony areas of the body where there is less cushioning between the skin and bone.
Common areas include:
- Bottom
- Heels
- Hips
- Spine
- Elbows
- Ears
What Causes Pressure Injuries?
Pressure injuries usually develop when someone remains in the same position for long periods.
The continuous pressure reduces blood flow to the skin, preventing oxygen and nutrients from reaching the tissues.
Skin damage can also be caused by shearing, where the skin is pulled in one direction while the tissues underneath move in another—for example, when sliding down a chair or being pulled up in bed.
Who is Most at Risk?
Anyone can develop a pressure injury, but the risk is higher if you:
- Have limited mobility.
- Spend long periods sitting or lying in one position.
- Have reduced sensation.
- Are acutely unwell.
- Have poor circulation.
- Experience incontinence.
- Have poor nutrition, weight loss or reduced appetite.
Early Signs to Look For
Recognising pressure damage early is one of the best ways to prevent it becoming more serious.
Watch for:
- Redness that does not fade after pressure is removed.
- Purple or darker discolouration on darker skin tones.
- Warm or hard areas of skin.
- Swelling.
- Blisters.
- Broken skin.
- Open wounds.
- Pain or discomfort.
A temporary red mark after sitting or lying down is normal.
However, if the mark does not disappear within around 20 minutes after relieving the pressure, it could be an early sign of a pressure injury and should not be ignored.
How to Prevent Pressure Injuries
Check Your Skin Every Day
Regularly inspect your skin, particularly areas that take your body weight when sitting or lying down.
Knowing what your skin normally looks and feels like makes it easier to notice early changes.
If you cannot check your skin yourself, ask a family member or carer to help.
Keep Your Skin Clean and Dry
Healthy skin is more resistant to damage.
You should:
- Wash your skin daily.
- Gently dry the skin.
- Avoid harsh soaps if frequent washing is needed.
- Ask your pharmacist or healthcare professional about suitable soap substitutes if required.
Change Your Position Regularly
Changing position regularly is one of the most effective ways to reduce pressure.
Even small movements can make a difference.
If you already have signs of skin damage, avoid sitting or lying directly on the affected area and seek advice from a healthcare professional. If you need assistance to move, ask your carer to help and make repositioning part of your daily routine.
Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
Good nutrition helps keep your skin healthy and supports healing.
Try to:
- Eat regular, balanced meals.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Take extra care to stay hydrated during hot weather.
Managing Incontinence
Moisture from urinary or faecal incontinence can make skin more vulnerable to damage.
If this affects you, speak to a healthcare professional for advice on protecting your skin and managing incontinence effectively.
Travelling and Holidays
If you already have a pressure injury or are considered at higher risk, discuss any travel or holiday plans with your healthcare professional before you go.
You may need:
- Pressure-relieving equipment.
- A seating or sleeping plan.
- Advice on maintaining regular position changes while travelling.
Remember to let your healthcare professional know when you return.
When Should I Seek Advice?
Speak to a healthcare professional if:
- You notice skin colour changes that do not disappear after pressure is relieved.
- You develop blisters, broken skin or an open wound.
- You have increasing pain or discomfort.
- You think you may be at risk of developing a pressure injury.
A healthcare professional can assess your needs and develop an individual care plan to help protect your skin.
Helping Someone Prevent Pressure Injuries
If you care for someone who has limited mobility, you can help by:
- Encouraging regular position changes.
- Helping them inspect areas they cannot easily see.
- Supporting good personal hygiene.
- Encouraging regular meals and adequate fluid intake.
- Looking out for early signs of pressure damage.
- Contacting a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Early action can often prevent pressure injuries from becoming more serious.
Further Information
If you are concerned about pressure injuries or would like advice about protecting your skin, please contact the Wound Care Service.
Telephone: 0117 944 9733
Email: sirona.wcs@nhs.net
