Four Stages of Bedsores

A stage one pressure sore is the mildest pressure sore. It may develop in just a few hours, and it usually looks like a red mark on the skin.

This type of pressure sore only affects the upper layer of the skin. Stage one pressure sores make the skin red or discolored, which may not look very serious at first. The patch of skin may feel warm to the touch or not lighten as usual when pressed. It might also feel firm or soft compared to the surrounding skin.

Though pressure wounds cause redness and discoloration in lighter-skinned individuals, this physical sign isn’t consistent in those with darker skin. According to the article “Review of the Current Management of Pressure Ulcers,” dark patches or purple tones might be seen instead of redness.

During stage one, it is common to see tissue swelling and induration, which is the hardening of the tissues. If these symptoms are present, pressure should immediately be removed from the affected area. If pressure is not alleviated, the bedsore may progress to a stage two ulcer, which becomes more difficult to treat. It’s critical for health care professionals to be checking for signs of pressure sores so that wounds don’t progress past stage one. A stage one ulcer may heal within three to four days when diagnosed and treated in a timely fashion.

What Should You Do if You Have a Stage 1 Pressure Ulcer?

The simplest thing to do right away is to take pressure off the ulcer. This can be done by changing your position or using a new foam pad, mattress, or pillow that alleviates the strain on your body parts.

Caretakers should move patients who have to spend extended periods of time in bed or a wheelchair at least once every two hours. Patients in sitting positions should move around one time every 15 minutes, so as to remove pressure from the backs of their knees and ankles.

Eating a well-rounded diet high in protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and zinc may help your skin recover. You can work with a nutritionist or nursing home staff to develop a meal plan that’s appropriate for you or your loved one.

It’s also important for residents to receive proper grooming, including regular bathing. Cleansing the affected area with mild soap and water is helpful to prevent an infection.

Patients with paralysis or nerve damage may be unaware of pain or injuries from bedsores. Therefore, they may require the assistance of a health care professional to remind them to move or to aid in repositioning them or making other adjustments to ensure their comfortability and prevent the development of pressure ulcers. This information should be included in a care plan. Nursing homes must have care plans for each resident to establish appropriate care for your loved one. These care plans take into consideration a resident’s current physical and mental health status and allow for regular assessments and revisions to guide optimal ongoing care.

Stage one bedsores may heal in as few as two to three days, but can sometimes last longer. Keep your medical provider informed on the status of your pressure ulcer to ensure it’s healing properly.