bedsore

(noun)

A lesion caused by unrelieved pressure to any part of the body, especially portions over bony or cartilaginous areas, such as frequently develops on a person confined to a bed by infirmity. Also know as pressure ulcer or decubitus ulcer.

Related Terms

Examples of bedsore in the following topics:

  • Pressure Ulcers

    • Pressure ulcers, or bedsores, are lesions cause by unrelieved pressure that blocks blood flow to the skin, causing severe illness or death.
    • Bedsores typically affect the elderly and individuals who are restricted to a prone position for long periods of time.
    • Bedsores are often fatal and are one of the leading iatrogenic causes of death reported in developed countries.
    • The most important care for a patient with bedsores is the relief of pressure.
    • Once a bedsore is found, pressure should immediately be lifted from the area and the patient turned at least every two hours to avoid aggravating the wound.

  • Gangrene

    • Bedsores occurring on body parts such as the sacrum, buttocks, and heels are also categorized as wet gangrene infections.

  • Sepsis and Septic Shock

    • For patients in the hospital, common sites of infection include intravenous lines, surgical wounds, surgical drains, and sites of skin breakdown known as bedsores (decubitus ulcers).