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How should wounds be cared for in bedbound patients at home?

Bedbound patients need daily skin checks, an individualized repositioning and pressure-relief plan, prompt moisture and incontinence care, adequate food and fluids when medically appropriate, and clinician-directed wound dressings. Existing pressure wounds should be assessed by a healthcare professional; pillows or dressings alone do not address infection, depth, circulation, or nutrition.

Check skin and relieve pressure

Inspect the tailbone, hips, heels, ankles, elbows, shoulder blades, back of the head, and skin beneath devices every day. Follow the care team’s repositioning schedule and use prescribed support surfaces or heel-suspension devices. Avoid placing ring-shaped cushions directly under a pressure point.

Manage moisture without injuring skin

Clean urine or stool promptly with gentle products, pat rather than rub, and use a barrier product if directed. Keep linens smooth and dry. Do not massage discolored pressure areas or scrub fragile skin.

Follow the wound and nutrition plan

Use only the ordered cleanser and dressing, and wash hands before and after care. Record wound changes and dressing saturation. Ask the clinician or dietitian about nutrition and fluid needs because restrictions for heart, kidney, swallowing, or other conditions must be considered.

  • Confirm who changes each dressing and how often
  • Keep pressure off the wound during transfers and positioning
  • Check tubing, braces, and medical devices for pressure points
  • Request reassessment for a new wound or any deterioration

Emergency red flags

Seek urgent or emergency care when a pressure wound or the patient worsens suddenly.

  • Rapidly spreading redness, swelling, blistering, or black tissue
  • Heavy bleeding, exposed bone, or severe worsening pain
  • Fever with new confusion, faintness, rapid breathing, or unusual sleepiness
  • A cold, pale, blue, or newly numb limb

Medical references

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.