Lorraine Poulos

45 Pressure Injuries Maximising healthy skin 1 2 3 4 Know your client’s preference for skin care: • Identify skin moisturisers of choice • Know how much help they need to apply skin care treatments • Identify if there are any topical treatments that irritate your client Reduce risk of skin changes: • Encourage healthy diet and good fluid intake • Reduce environmental clutter • Maintain / increase mobility and exercise • Ensure continence aids are used correctly • Ensure continence aids are changed regularly and client’s skin is cleaned and dried in between each change • Ensure continence aids are the correct size for the client so they are a snug fit without being too tight • Always wash skin after incontinent episodes • Avoid massaging or rubbing bony body parts of the body. Wash bony parts of the body gently and gently pat them dry • Avoid tight clothing • Avoid ill-fitting footwear (shoes should not be too tight or too lose) • Observe skin regularly for changes Physical supports: • Pressure redistribution mattress / air mattress or comfort chair • Heel protection boots • Leg protectors (e.g. Tubigrip) • Bedrail protectors (if bedrails in use) • Pressure cushion for wheelchair or chair-bound clients Observe: • Air mattress pump setting is correct for client • Restlessness caused by discomfort / stiffness • Any broken skin • Any redness on high risk areas such as sacrum, hips, buttocks and feet • Any bruises or scratches • Any persistent wounds Document in the Client Journal: • Changes or concerns 5 Guide for consumers, carers and workers