Answers Pressure Ulcer

There are two main layers which make up the anatomy of the skin, the epidermis and the dermis. When pressure is applied to the skin the blood supply is cut off and the tissue becomes damaged. 2. There are three main types of force that cause damage to the skin through pressure. These are: . Direct Pressure 2. Shear or shearing force Friction or friction force 3. 3. How long does it take for pressure ulcers to start forming? It is different for each person, some are more susceptible than others.Previously people thought that pressure ulcers started forming after two hours, but this is now known to be inaccurate. 4. What risk factors make service users more susceptible to pressure ulcers? Give 4 examples. 1 . Age 2. Being under or overweight Moisture on the skin 4. Reduced mobility 5. Circulatory problems Lack of sensation 6. 7. Previous history of pressure damage 5. What areas on the body are common sites for pressure ulcer development? Give 5 examples. 1. Scalp 2. Shoulder blades 3. Elbows 4. Sacrum 5. Heels 6. Ears 7. Hips 8. An keels Answers (6-10) 6.Describe the method you would use to check skin for pressure damage. First look at all the areas which are common sites for pressure ulcer development for redness. If you find redness on the skin, feel the area with your hands to check for heat and press the area with your fingers to check for damage of the blood vessels. 7. How would you tell the difference between simple reddening of the skin and actual pressure damage? When you press the reddened areas, healthy skin will go white under your fingers and then return to its normal color, but damaged skin will stay red, which shows that the blood vessels are damaged. . In some cases people have had to have amputations and even died as a consequence of their pressure ulcer. True or false? True 9. What can you do to help prevent pressure ulcer development in service users? Give 3 examples.