To prevent pressure ulcers, attention must be paid to reducing individual risk factors.
Behavioral risk factors
- Diet
- Micronutrient deficiency (vital substances) – see Prevention with micronutrients.
- Immobilization / lack of movement
- Underweight (BMI < 18.5)
Other risk factors
- Acute diseases, unspecified
- General dystrophy
- Chronic diseases, unspecified
- Ill-fitting aids such as prostheses.
Preventive measures
- For immobile individuals, pressure relief must be achieved by repositioning/soft/open positioning
- The support surface should always be as large as possible – minimize pressure on bony prominences
- Balanced diet
- Avoidance of permanent skin moisture – keep skin clean and dry.
- Checking an existing pain therapy
