Betty, an 83 year old woman, is bedfast due to a severely broken hip. Unfortunately, she has developed a decubitus ulcer. What is a decubitus ulcer...

Decubitus ulcers, commonly known as bed sores, occurs when an area of skin is is constantly exposed to rubbing  and the skin breaks down. This is often seen in immobile patients who do not move or change areas where their body rubs or is pressed against bedding. In its initial stages, decubitus ulcers can be treated by alleviating the pressure to the area using pillows, medical sheepskins or specialized cushions and protecting agains further friction...

Decubitus ulcers, commonly known as bed sores, occurs when an area of skin is is constantly exposed to rubbing  and the skin breaks down. This is often seen in immobile patients who do not move or change areas where their body rubs or is pressed against bedding. In its initial stages, decubitus ulcers can be treated by alleviating the pressure to the area using pillows, medical sheepskins or specialized cushions and protecting agains further friction by using powder. In later stages the ulcers become more complicated to treat as the tissues below the skin can also become damaged forming a visible crater and in severe cases, muscles, tendons, bones and joints may also become damaged. 

Decubitus ulcers can be prevented by changing positions and pressure contact points every two hours as well as doing motion exercises when possible and staying hydrated. Proper nutritions and hygiene also has been shown to prevent them. It is important for immobile patients to be examined daily for early signs of the ulcers as open wounds and worsening ulcers can usually be kept at bay.