Suggested Treatments for Bedsores

There are several treatment options for bedsores, depending upon the severity and the location of the bedsore itself. Bedsore treatment options, much like prevention options, must take a multi-faceted approach in order to fully compensate for the potential factors that can impede or even prevent the healing process. If the affected person resides in a nursing home, treatment options should also take into consideration not only the bedsore, but the care plan as well. This ensures that treatment options do not cause conflicts with other medical conditions, injuries, or considerations. Because the policies in nursing homes may differ from that of a hospital or other care facility, you should verify all available treatment options with the staff and get recommendations from a trusted medical professional.

Pressure Relief

One of the most common treatment options for early stage bedsores is simply to relieve the pressure on the affected area and allow natural healing to occur. This is usually accomplished with a personalized schedule of turning and position changes, along with specialized bedding or mattresses. Sheepskin may be used to help reduce pressure and minimize the chances of shear and friction during the regular turning schedule. Additionally, gel pads or other types of specialized mattresses may be used to help reduce pressure on joints and other vulnerable areas.

Nutrition

Because bedsores can cause a loss of nourishment due to the body's decreased ability to metabolize nutrients and the increased calories needed for healing, a comprehensive nutrition plan should be in place to supplement other forms of treatment. This area may be overlooked in some nursing home settings, however, it is an important facet of the healing process to ensure continued availability of essential nutrients and adequate caloric intake.

Medications

Bedsores which have progressed past the first stage will often require various types of medications in order to minimize the pain associated with the condition, as well as in treatment of underlying complications that are due to bedsores. Pain medication is common, and necessary for patients who have decreased levels of sensation, as dangerously high blood pressure can result when pain sensations are allowed to misfire in these patients. Antibiotics may be given if the bedsore becomes infected, which is an acute danger for late stage bedsores, especially those located in areas which may become contaminated due to contact with soiled adult diapers.

Surgery

For severe bedsores, and bedsores that are resistant to healing, surgery may be required to close the wound and give the patient an acceptable chance at full recuperation. In these instances, skin or tissue grafts may be required in order to successfully complete the surgery. Recovery for this type of treatment may be prolonged, and is generally done in combination with the other treatment options listed in order to minimize the chances that new bedsores will develop. Because specific treatment options will vary from patient to patient depending upon the circumstances surrounding the condition, it is important to discuss all treatment options with qualified medical staff. Be prepared to get input on different facets of treatment and care, and try to craft a care plan that will address all the issues needed to ensure that the bedsore heals with minimal complications.