SSKIN to Prevent Pressure Ulcer
Patients suffering from pressure ulcers suffer from acute long-term pain.
One methodology to prevent this often unnecessary injury is called SSKIN. SSKIN is s five-step model for pressure ulcer prevention.
1. S: Support
The first part of pressure ulcer prevent is making sure that patient has enough support. Treating the entire patient is one of the most important parts of preventing pressure ulcers.
2. S: Skin Inspection
Remember that early detection is best for treatment. Teach the patients the early signs of an ulcer so that they may take an active role in their own care.
3. K: Keep Patients Moving
Patients need to move. Not only to prevent pressure ulcer, but also for their overall health.
4. I: Incontinence
Keep your patients dry and clean to prevent wounds from festering
5. N: Nutrition
Ensure that patients are eating properly and are well hydrated. A balanced diet means a healthier patient.
SSKIN is a simple system that takes only a few minutes to memorize, but it requires a commitment to follow with every patient. Systems have been developed to prevent pressure ulcers, but unless the systems locally endorsed they will not work.
