Regular change of position prevents the development of pressure sores
The prophylaxis of pressure spots is very important because one of the most serious complications of immobility and confinement to bed is the occurrence of pressure spots on the skin which can develop into a pressure sore (=decubitus).
Pressure spots form preferably on sites of the body where there are prominences of bone and the skin is not well padded with subcutaneous fatty tissue.
There is only one single correct prophylaxis measure to prevent decubitus: the pressure effect must be eliminated. Pressure is relieved by changing the position of the patient regularly, by positioning the entire body on extremely soft bedding or by positioning individual body parts on cushions or pillows.
Prophylaxis of thrombosis
High-risk patients should wear anti-thrombosis stockings
The term “thrombosis” is used to denote the development of blood clots in the vascular system, in which case the clots form primarily in the leg veins. For the prophylaxis of thrombosis exercises can be performed in bed:
Raising the legs, foot and toe gymnastics
Breathing exercises
If the patient cannot move, the carer must lift the patient’s legs or move his feet and toes several times a day. Whenever the patient’s condition allows it, he should naturally get up every day and walk around a bit at least for a short time.
For obvious risk patients (the physician makes the evaluation) a snugly and firmly fitting compression bandage must be applied to both legs before rising. Anti-thrombosis stockings are also practical.
Pneumonia prophylaxis
Pneumonia is a typical complication of confinement to bed to which primarily people with respiratory tract diseases as well as elderly people are susceptible.
The patient should breathe deeply several times a day with his upper body elevated. If this is not possible because of his general state of health, respiration and ventilation must be facilitated by a right lateral position.
To loosen the mucus, the chest can be percussed with light taps. This measure must however be authorized by the physician because percussion is not suitable for patients with head injuries or for cardiac patients.
