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Your loved one’s skin should be kept clean and dry. Sheets should be as clean and wrinkle-free as possible. Try to avoid leaving wet clothing or bed linen in contact with the patient. Waterproof disposable pads are available, and the hospice staff can show you how to use them.
Inform the hospice staff of any breaks in the skin or reddened areas. Turning the patient will help prevent skin breakdown. Skin breakdowns (bedsores) are most likely to occur over bony areas known as pressure points. Areas that are prone to pressure include the hips, elbows, shoulder blades, heels, ankles, back of the head and ears. Your hospice team can provide you with special mattresses and pads to help prevent skin breakdown. |
