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Bedsores are a common problem in nursing homes. Studies show that bedsores can take between several days and two years to heal completely, depending on severity and level of infection.
Bedsores are categorized by stages between 1 and 4. Each stage requires different treatments or combination of treatments.
- Stage 1 – At this stage, the wound appears as a discoloration of the skin. It may be accompanied by pain or even numbness. The primary treatment of Stage 1 a bedsore is to reduce the pressure to the affected area. Lifts, air mattresses, and repositioning are often used. Topical creams and ointments may also be used.
- Stage 2 – At this stage, the wound begins to open to show the underlying tissue. These wounds are more painful. Again, offloading the affected area is the most useful and common treatment.
- Stage 3 – At this stage, the wound has opened further and may be exposing tissue, muscle and bone. Antibiotics, creams, wound dressings, and repositioning may be implemented, as well as surgery to removed dead or decayed tissue. This procedure is called debridement.
- Stage 4 – At this stage, the wound has become deeper, with more underlying tissue, muscle, and bone exposure. Infection is a serious danger at this stage. Constant wound management and debridement is necessary at this stage.
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