Week 1 - Pressure injuries

Question 1

What is a pressure injury?

Answer 1

A pressure injury is localized damage to the skin and underlying soft tissue that’s usually, not not always, over a bony prominence.

Question 2

Who is more at risk of getting a pressure injury?

Answer 2

More at risk of a pressure injury if they are sick, fragile, cannot mobilize easily or have poor food and fluid intake

Question 3

Describe key points to the acronym Surface and devices to prevent pressure injuries

Answer 3

1. Pillows, cushions, and mattresses can make a significant impact on reducing pressure injuries
2. Re-positioning needs to be regular
3. Moving the person when they are uncomfortable or have a loss of feeling is essential to prevent pressure injuries

Question 4

What is the acronym to use when preventing pressure injuries and what does it stand for?

Answer 4

S - Surfaces and Devices
S - Skin inspection
K- Keep moving
I - Incontinence and moisture
N - Nutrition and hydration

Question 5

Where on the body are pressure injuries most likely to occur?

Answer 5

Can happen anywhere but Heels, sacrum,s and ankles are more common

Question 6

How many stages of pressure injuries are there?

Answer 6

4 Stages
1 minor
4 worse

Question 7

Describe key points to the acronym Skin inspection to prevent pressure injuries

Answer 7

• Carried out regularly (identify any discolouration, change in temperature, swelling and any pain or discomfort)
• Pressure mapping can be used to identify the intensity of pressure
• Too much bedding can cause pressure and make sure the chair they are using is the chair (sit with knees at a 90 degree angle)
• Watch where the feet of tall people are, as the feet might be touching the end and cause pressure

Question 8

Describe key points to the acronym Keep moving to prevent pressure injuries

Answer 8

• Having a mobility plan in place helps ensure care is received to meet a person’s needs
• The plan should include a repositioning schedule, or walking schedule, aides and people required
• Shower and toilet chairs can lead to pressure damage