The heels are the most common site for facility-acquired pressure ulcers in long-term care facilities and the second most common site for pressure ulcers overall.1 Pressure ulcers frequently develop on other bony prominences as well, including the elbows.
According to clinical experts, the most effective aspect of pressure ulcer prevention for the heels is pressure relief, also known as offloading.1,2 Offloading is achieved with the use of pillows or heel protection devices that relieve pressure by elevating the heel. Some of these devices also protect the skin from friction and shear, another risk factor for pressure ulcers.
Health Products Express offers an array of heel and elbow protection devices to fit your needs and budget. These devices are excellent tools to implement as part of the pressure ulcer prevention program at your facility. We encourage you to use evidencebased risk assessment tools to properly determine pressure ulcer risk for each of the individuals in your care and choose pressure relief and support devices accordingly.
1 Fowler E, Scott-Williams S, McGuire JB. Practice recommendations for preventing heel pressure ulcers. Ostomy Wound Management. 2008;54(10):42:48.
2 Langemo D, Thompson P, Hunter S, Hanson D, Anderson J. Heel pressure ulcers: stand guard. Advances in Skin & Wound Care. 2008;21(6):282-292.