Prevent bed sores with regular position changes, daily head-to-toe skin checks, heel offloading, a suitable mattress or wheelchair cushion, moisture protection, adequate nutrition, and as much safe movement as possible. Persistent red, dark, or purple skin that does not return to normal after pressure is removed needs prompt clinical review.
Inspect and feel the tailbone, hips, heels, ankles, elbows, shoulder blades, back of the head, and skin beneath medical devices. On darker skin tones, early injury may appear purple, blue, unusually dark, warm, firm, boggy, or painful rather than bright red.
Help the person change position on a schedule tailored by their care team and use a draw sheet or lift device to limit friction and shear. Float heels while in bed and encourage safe transfers, standing, or range-of-motion exercises when medically appropriate.
Ask a clinician or therapist about a pressure-redistributing mattress and fitted wheelchair cushion. Keep linens smooth and dry, cleanse gently after incontinence, and use a moisture barrier. Do not use donut cushions or massage discolored areas.
Remove pressure immediately when skin changes appear and contact a clinician if discoloration persists, the skin blisters, or an opening develops. Same-day care is appropriate for warmth, pus, odor, spreading redness, fever, or worsening pain; call 911 for confusion, breathing difficulty, or severe illness.
Call 877-545-1300 or request a provider to begin care. Healix360 serves Southern California and Nevada and accepts Medicare Part B and most major insurance plans.