How to Prevent Pressure Injuries and Bedsores When Using Hospital Beds

A hospital bed should provide comfort, healing, and safety. However, for individuals who spend extended periods in bed, there’s a serious risk of developing pressure injuries—also known as bedsores. These painful sores can lead to severe complications if not prevented and managed properly.

At Prosperity Health Inc., we understand the importance of proactive care. A hospital bed alone won’t prevent ulcers, but with the right strategies—proper positioning, specialized mattresses, and attentive skin care—you can significantly reduce the risk.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about pressure injury prevention and how to keep your skin healthy while using a hospital bed.

Why Hospital Bed Sore Prevention Matters

Pressure injuries develop when prolonged pressure on the skin reduces blood flow to certain areas, leading to tissue damage. People with limited mobility, chronic illness, or advanced age are particularly vulnerable.

If left untreated, bedsores can lead to infections, pain, and serious medical complications. The good news? With the right care plan, they are largely preventable.

Understanding Pressure Injuries and How They Form

Before we dive into how to prevent bedsores, let’s break down how pressure injuries develop:

• Pressure: Constant pressure on bony areas (such as the tailbone, heels, elbows, and hips) reduces circulation, depriving the skin of oxygen and nutrients.

• Friction: When skin rubs against bedding or clothing, it can weaken and become more susceptible to damage.

• Shear: This occurs when skin stays in place while the body shifts, causing deep tissue damage beneath the surface.

• Moisture: Excess moisture from sweat or incontinence softens the skin, making it more prone to breaking down.

Now that we understand the risks, let’s explore the best ways to prevent pressure injuries and bedsores when using hospital beds.

Choosing the Right Mattress for Pressure Injury Prevention

A high-quality mattress plays a key role in reducing pressure and keeping skin healthy. Standard hospital bed mattresses may not always provide enough pressure relief, so consider these options:

• Pressure-redistributing mattresses: Foam, gel, or air-filled mattresses help distribute weight more evenly, reducing pressure on vulnerable areas.

• Alternating pressure mattresses: These use air chambers that inflate and deflate at intervals, promoting circulation and relieving pressure.

• Low air loss mattresses: These provide airflow to reduce moisture buildup, keeping the skin dry and healthy.

Your healthcare provider or a professional at Prosperity Health Inc. can help you choose the best mattress for your needs.

How to Prevent Bedsores with Proper Positioning and Turning Schedules

Lying in one position for extended periods increases the risk of pressure injuries. Regular repositioning is one of the most effective ways to prevent bedsores while using a hospital bed. This helps relieve pressure from high-risk areas, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of skin breakdown.

Why Repositioning Matters

When a person stays in the same position for too long, blood flow is restricted, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients in certain areas. The most vulnerable spots include:

• Tailbone (sacrum and coccyx)

• Hips and lower back

• Heels and ankles

• Elbows and shoulders

Without proper movement, these areas develop skin irritation, redness, and ultimately, painful ulcers.

Repositioning Tips to Prevent Bedsores

1️⃣ Turn and reposition at least every 2 hours if you or your loved one cannot move independently. This reduces prolonged pressure on the skin.

2️⃣ Use pillows or foam wedges to offload pressure from bony areas like the heels, hips, and shoulders.

3️⃣ Keep the head of the bed raised no more than 30 degrees to prevent sliding, which can cause shear and friction injuries.

4️⃣ Ensure heels are lifted off the bed by placing pillows or special heel protectors under the calves. This prevents direct pressure on the heels

5️⃣ Encourage small shifts in position frequently if the individual can move on their own. Even slight adjustments can improve blood circulation and prevent sores.

6️⃣ Use pressure-relieving cushions if the person spends extended time sitting up in bed or in a wheelchair.

Expert Tip: Consider using a repositioning chart or alarm reminders to track when position changes should occur.

Skin Care Essentials for Preventing Bedsores in a Hospital Bed

Healthy, well-maintained skin is more resilient and less likely to break down under pressure. A daily skincare routine is essential for preventing pressure injuries.

Best Practices for Skin Protection

✅ Keep the skin clean and dry – Moisture weakens the skin’s barrier, making it more prone to damage. Gently cleanse the skin with mild, pH-balanced cleansers instead of harsh soaps.

✅ Use moisture-barrier creams – Apply a protective barrier cream to areas exposed to excess moisture, such as the buttocks, thighs, and lower back, especially if incontinence is a concern.

✅ Inspect the skin daily – Check for redness, warmth, swelling, or any early signs of irritation. If caught early, minor redness can be treated before it worsens into an open sore.

✅ Avoid excessive friction – Use soft bedding and gentle movements when repositioning to prevent rubbing and irritation. Consider silk-like fabrics to reduce skin damage.

✅ Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water helps maintain skin elasticity and strength, making it more resistant to injury.

Quick Action: If you notice red or discolored skin, apply a protective dressing and adjust positioning immediately to relieve pressure on the affected area.

Nutrition and Hydration: Building Blocks for Skin Health

Your body requires proper nutrients to maintain strong, healthy skin and support wound healing. A nutrient-rich diet is essential for preventing skin breakdown and promoting recovery from minor wounds.

Key Nutrients for Healthy Skin and Wound Prevention

Protein – Supports tissue repair, collagen production, and muscle strength. Foods like eggs, fish, lean meats, beans, and dairy are excellent sources.

Vitamin C – Crucial for collagen formation and skin regeneration. Found in oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and leafy greens.

Zinc – Enhances wound healing and immune function. Good sources include nuts, seeds, whole grains, and shellfish.

Hydration – Dehydrated skin is more fragile and prone to breakdown. Drinking enough fluids, including water, herbal teas, and hydrating foods (such as cucumbers and melons), helps maintain skin integrity.

Consult a healthcare provider or nutritionist to develop a meal plan tailored to individual dietary needs, especially if there are underlying health conditions affecting nutrient absorption.

Mobility and Movement: Keeping Circulation Strong

Regular movement is one of the best ways to prevent pressure ulcers because it keeps blood flowing to the skin and muscles. Even if full mobility is not possible, small movements can make a big difference.

How to Improve Circulation and Prevent Bedsores

✔️ Gentle Range-of-Motion Exercises – Stretching and moving the arms, legs, and joints (with assistance if needed) can stimulate circulation and prevent stiffness.

✔️ Encourage Sitting Up or Weight Shifting – If the person can sit upright in bed or a chair, adjust their position every 15-30 minutes to relieve pressure.

✔️ Use Assistive Devices – Specialized positioning aids, wheelchair cushions, or over-bed trapeze bars can help with movement and prevent prolonged pressure on certain areas.

Pro Tip: Even passive exercises, like gently massaging limbs or repositioning every few hours, help maintain blood circulation and reduce the risk of pressure injuries.

Additional Hospital Bed Adjustments for Comfort and Safety

A hospital bed can be adjusted to improve posture, minimize pressure, and enhance overall comfort for individuals at risk of bedsores.

How to Adjust a Hospital Bed for Bedsore Prevention

Adjust the Bed Height – When sitting up, the person's feet should touch the floor (or a footrest) to promote stability and circulation.

Modify Head and Foot Positions – Raising the head too high can cause shear injuries, while slightly elevating the legs can improve circulation and relieve pressure on the lower body.

Use Tilt-in-Space or Lateral Rotation Features – Some hospital beds come with automated repositioning options, which can be extremely helpful for those with limited mobility.

FYI: Comprehensive Approach to Prevent Bedsores in a Hospital Bed

Preventing bedsores requires a holistic approach—the right mattress, positioning techniques, skin care, nutrition, and movement all work together to protect skin and maintain circulation. A hospital bed alone won’t prevent ulcers—it’s the consistent use of proactive care strategies that makes the difference.

For additional guidance, explore these trusted resources on pressure injury prevention:

🔹 National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) – Industry leader in pressure ulcer prevention and treatment.

🔹 Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) – Expert insights on wound care and prevention strategies.

Take Action: Let Prosperity Health Inc. Help You

At Prosperity Health Inc., we are committed to your comfort and well-being. Whether you need a pressure-relieving mattress, expert advice on hospital bed adjustments, or guidance on best practices for preventing pressure injuries and bedsores when using hospital beds, we’re here to help.

📞 Call us today for a free consultation and let’s find the right solutions for you or your loved one.

Don’t wait until bedsores become a problem—take proactive steps now for better health and peace of mind!