How to treat bedsores in elderly patients with hemiplegia

For elderly patients with hemiplegia who develop pressure ulcers, treatment can be provided through nutritional support, skin care, medication, physical therapy, and pressure relief on the affected areas.

1. Nutritional support: Adequate nutrition intake helps promote wound healing and recovery. Ensure the elderly person receives sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals through a balanced diet or oral nutritional supplements.

2. Skin care: Keeping the skin around the pressure ulcer clean and dry is crucial for treatment. Gently wash the affected area regularly with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, avoiding friction or pulling. Pat the area dry rather than rubbing. Afterwards, appropriate skincare products such as moisturizers or protective padding may be used.

3. Medication: It is important to keep the pressure ulcer wound clean. Under medical guidance, apply biological dressings such as hydrocolloid dressings, which help protect the wound, absorb exudate, and fill areas with necrotic tissue. If infection is present, systemic antibiotics should be administered under a doctor's supervision, such as amoxicillin capsules or cefaclor tablets.

4. Physical therapy: When necessary, physical therapies such as light therapy or high-frequency ultrasound may be administered under a physician’s guidance.

5. Pressure relief on ulcer sites: In hemiplegic elderly patients, pressure ulcers commonly occur in areas subjected to prolonged pressure, such as the sacrum, spine, or fibula. The key intervention is reducing pressure on these areas. Use appropriate supportive devices such as specialized mattresses, cushions, or seat pads, and reposition the patient regularly to avoid maintaining the same posture for extended periods.

For more specific treatment recommendations, please consult a healthcare professional.