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Caring for wounds, caring for loved ones
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Jonathan Dykstra, MD
Medical director
Wound Healing Center
PeaceHealth Southwest
Specialty Clinic —
Mill Plain Campus
8716 E. Mill Plain Blvd.
Vancouver, WA 98668
360.514.HEAL (4325) |
In many families, caring for elderly or sick relatives falls to women. Most female caregivers wouldn't have it any other way. "When a loved one has a serious wound, it's important to catch small things early. That helps prevent larger issues later," says Jonathan Dykstra, MD, medical director for the Wound Healing Center.
Here are some tips for daily care if you or your loved one has a serious wound:
| Check for bedsores (pressure ulcers). |
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These can be life-threatening if left untreated. For light skinned individuals, check for a red area on the skin that does not fade. For dark skinned individuals, check for persistent areas of red, blue or purple with a different skin temperature or texture, as well as pain or itching. |
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| Check the feet. |
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For diabetic individuals, check the feet and between toes for blisters, cuts and scratches. |
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| Cushion the back and hips. |
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Use commercially available pressure-reducing cushions and mattresses, but avoid those that resemble egg crate foam. Also, don't use "donuts."
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| Keep the legs comfortable. |
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Place a pillow under the calves to prevent heels from touching the bed. Use pillows and foam wedges to keep ankles and knees apart. |
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| Help tender skin. |
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When treating incontinence, cleanse the skin, and use a topical moisture barrier. Select absorbent briefs or under-pads that provide a quick drying surface to the skin. |
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| Prevent dryness. |
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Use mild soaps and water when bathing. Apply skin moisturizers to prevent dryness. |
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| Sit properly. |
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Conditions that prevent blood flow contribute to chronic wounds, and sitting with crossed legs can cause pressure on the nerves and blood vessels. |
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| Keep moving. |
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Keep moving. If your loved one has challenges with being mobile, change their position every 15 minutes when sitting and at least every 2 hours in bed. Be gentle, and avoid friction which could damage the skin.
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| Take care of yourself. |
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"Caregivers need care too," says Dr. Dykstra. "Caregiving without relief can harm your mental and physical health by raising blood pressure, interfering with sleep, and triggering depression. Remember, you deserve time to visit others, read a book, get support, and do other things for yourself." For additional tips, visit www.swmedicalcenter.org/caregivers. |
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| Learn more. |
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The Wound Healing Center's physicians and staff offer expert medical care for serious wounds. They also offer practical yet compassionate instructions for ongoing care at home, including how to change dressings and how to be protected from further injuries. The team is always here to answer questions and give you the support you need. Learn more:
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Published September 2009
Disclaimer
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