First, Do No Harm: Help For Caregivers (NAPSA)—According to gov- ernment statistics collected by the National Family Caregivers Association, more than 50 million people in the U.S.care for an elderly, disabled or chronically ill family memberor friend. Pressure ulcers, better known as bedsores, and diabetic ulcers on the lower legs and feet can be tremendous challenges for caregivers and put a loved one at risk for further disability or illness. “If pressure and diabetic ulcers are left untreated they can be life threatening, and caregivers often don’t realize the danger until an According to experts, over 50 million people in the U.S. care for ulcer develops,” says Robert S. an elderly, disabled or chronically ill family member or friend. Miami. and foam wedges to keep ankles and kneesapart. * Avoid Excessive Moisture: Kirsner, M.D., Ph.D., professor of dermatology at the University of As chair of the Medical Advisory Board of National Healing Corporation, which manages wound healing centers nationwide, Kirsner is on the leading edge of wound care and urges caregivers to be proactive. He sug- gests adding the following preventative steps to the daily caregiving routine: * Inspect: In light-skinned individuals, the first visible sign of a pressure ulcer is a red area on the skin that doesn’t fade. Darkskinned persons mayfirst notice persistent areas of red, blue or purple with a different skin temperature or texture and that are often accompanied by pain or itching. Feet First: In caring for di- abetics, check the feet and between toes for blisters, cuts and scratches. * Don’t Use Donuts: Use commercially available pressurereducing cushions and mattresses but avoid those that resemble eggcrate foam. Place a pillow under the calves to prevent heels from touching the bed and use pillows In treating incontinence, cleanse skin, use a topical moisture barrier and select absorbent briefs or under pads that provide a quickdrying surface to the skin. Easy Does It: Use mild soaps and water when bathing and apply skin moisturizers to prevent dryness. Sit Properly: Conditions that prevent blood flow contribute to chronic wounds, andsitting with crossed legs can cause pressure on the nerves and blood vessels. Keep Moving: People with immobility challenges should change position every 15 minutes when sitting and at least every two hours in bed. Be gentle and avoid friction, which could dam- age the skin. * Seek Medical Treatment: Seek medical attention if a chronic wound has not healed in 30 days or showssigns of infection. To find a wound healing center near you, visit www.national healing.com.
