Local Physician Offers Preventative Tips For Caregivers
One in a series of articles designed to make the Pee Dee healthier

By: Ganga Mathi, MD
Wound Healing Center at Marion Regional Healthcare System

According to government statistics collected by the National Family Caregivers Association, more than 50 million people in the U.S. care for an elderly, disabled or chronically ill family member or friend. There are several simple steps caregivers can take to reduce the risk of their loved ones facing further disability or illness.

Pressure ulcers, better known as bed sores, and diabetic ulcers on the lower legs and feet, can be tremendous challenges for caregivers. The wounds, if left untreated, can be life-threatening. Yet, caregivers sometimes don’t even realize their loved ones are at risk until the ulcer develops. The key is to be proactive.

Add the following preventative steps to the daily care-giving routine:

•    Inspect: In light skinned individuals, the first visible sign of a pressure ulcer is a red area on the skin that doesn’t fade. Dark skinned persons may first notice persistent areas of red, blue or purple with a different skin temperature or texture and which are often accompanied by pain or itching. In caring for diabetics, check the feet and between toes for blisters, cuts and scratches.

•    Don’t Use Donuts: Use commercially available pressure reducing cushions and mattresses but avoid those that resemble egg crate foam. Place a pillow under the calves to prevent heels from touching the bed and use pillows and foam wedges to keep ankles and knees apart.

•    Stay Dry: In treating incontinence, cleanse skin, use a topical moisture barrier and select absorbent briefs or under pads that provide a quick drying surface to the skin.

•    Easy Does It: Use mild soaps and water when bathing and apply skin moisturizers to prevent dryness.
•    Sit Properly: Conditions that prevent blood flow contribute to chronic wounds and sitting with crossed legs can cause pressure on the nerves and blood vessels.

•    Keep Moving: Those with immobility challenges should change position every 15 minutes when sitting and at least every two hours in bed. Be gentle and avoid friction which could damage the skin.

•    Seek Medical Treatment: See a health care professional if a chronic wound has not healed in 30 days or shows signs of infection.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (843) 431-CARE (2273) or visit them on the web at www.MarionCountyMedical.com.

The Wound Healing Center at Marion Regional Healthcare System is located on Highway 76 between Marion and Mullins. A National Healing Corporation Wound Center, it specializes in the treatment of chronic wounds and non-responsive conditions and offers hospital-based outpatient wound care and hyperbaric oxygen therapy as well as disease management and diabetes care. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations has awarded National Healing Corporation Disease-Specific Care Certification for wound care. 


Submitted:
January 9, 2009

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