SPECIALIST nurses are hoping to raise awareness about pressure ulcers, also known as bed sores or pressure sores.

Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust’s community tissue viability team provides specialist advice and support to Oxfordshire healthcare professionals who are managing complex wounds.

Tissue viability nurse Linda Binaccioni said: “95 per cent of pressure damage is believed to be avoidable, so we’re keen to advise about ways to prevent it happening. We also want to highlight some of the early signs to people so that they can seek help before their skin becomes damaged.

“There are several ways you can reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.

“Regularly change your position to keep blood flowing; check your skin for pressure damage at least once a day, and do not continue to lie on skin that is redder or darker than usual.

“Also watch out for blisters, dry patches or breaks in the skin. Pain in your heels can be a sign of developing skin damage.

“When washing, try to avoid using heavily perfumed soaps and avoid talcum powder as these can soak up the skin’s natural oils, leading to vulnerable dry areas.”

Tomorrow is worldwide Stop Pressure Ulcer Day. On that day the tissue viability team is taking a health bus to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Headington to raise awareness about the condition that is estimated to cost the NHS up to £2.1bn a year.