Caring safely at home: Looking after pressure ulcers

Pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and tissue that are most commonly caused by the skin having the same pressure on it for a long time – such as lying on a bed for an extended period of time.

These videos are designed for people caring for family or friends at home – known as informal or unpaid carers. They give you and the person you care for practical and relevant information to support you day to day.

Click to play the following videos to find out more.

This section covers:

An introduction to pressure ulcers

Pressure ulcers (also known as bed sores) can happen to anyone, but usually affect people confined to a bed or who sit in a chair or wheelchair for long periods of time.

The following video discusses what pressure ulcers are and tips to prevent them.

Equipment

This video shows some equipment you can use to prevent the person you care for from developing pressure ulcers.

What to look out for

Spotting a pressure ulcer in its early stages can reduce the risk of needing medical treatment. Watch this video to learn about the signs of a pressure ulcer developing.

The power of food and drink

The below video discusses how diet can help reduce the risk of pressure ulcers..