topic 4

Question 1

What potential health problems can people with mobility impairment experience? (7)

Answer 1

Obesity, muscle weakness, unsteadiness, pressure sores, pain, joint problems, and infections.

Question 2

What are the different ways pressure sores can develop? (4)

Answer 2

Friction, compression, shearing, and tearing.

Question 3

Friction

Answer 3

The force caused when two touching surfaces move in the opposite directions abrading the skin in the process.

Question 4

Compression

Answer 4

The pressure resulting from flattening or pressing on the skin.

Question 5

Shearing

Answer 5

Often causing injury which is not visible (takes place underneath the skin). This results from pressure exerted on the skin and the friction between the skin and the touching surface.

Question 6

Tearing

Answer 6

Traumatic wound caused by mechanical forces. The severity of such wound may vary and it cam also become complex chronic wound if not managed properly.

Question 7

What places can pressure sores develop? (8)

Answer 7

Ears, head, ankles, heels, elbows, buttocks, knees, shoulder blades, back bone, and sacrum.

Question 8

How can you prevent pressure sores? (9)

Answer 8

1. Change position frequently (2 hours for bed, 20 minutes for wheelchair)
2. Pressure relief mattress cushion
3. Sudocrem
4. Remove creased material under patient
5. Skin - clean + dry
6. Often change nappy
7. Pillows
8. Exercise
9. Healthy diet rich in protein