bed sores: love and care
Bed sores are medically called as pressure sores or pressure ulcers. They normally occur to people who are bedridden and immobile. This practically develops when the patient is unable to change position without help. Sustained pressure in one position for prolonged period cuts off circulation to some vulnerable parts of the body especially buttocks, hips and heels. Lack of adequate supply of blood will damage the skin making affected tissues die. Bed sores develops quickly, progress rapidly and is difficult to treat. Christopher Reeve died from complications of bed sores. This condition is very serious and should not be ignored. Love and care for the patients is all you need to fully empathize with their condition. If the patient can move please tell him to shift position every 15 minutes. If he is paralyzed and is unable to do so, please try to change his body position every hour. I had two grandfathers before who had been bedridden for about 8-10 years but never died with bed sores nor do they had one. They were well taken cared of by their wives who is always beside them to wipe them, to elevate them, to change their position, and even talk to them. Love is all we need to endure the burden and be sensitive to care for our patients. Remember, love!
