Out and about
Article Abstract:
Some patients who have had a lower limb skin graft are kept in bed for five days to prevent a seroma/haematoma from forming under the skin graft but it is beneficial to get them on their feet after two days to prevent chest infections, thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Early mobility also improves the patient's posture and reduces the number of pressure sores they get. Units which keep patients in bed for five or more days may be unaware of research which indicates that it is beneficial to get them up sooner. Treatments should be adapted in line with current research findings.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1999
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Preventative medicine
Article Abstract:
Patients with rheumatoid disease usually have restricted mobility and if they fall they are likely to damage their skin. Patients often develop nodules or bursae which, if bumped, will break the skin. Smokers may have reduced blood supply to their skin and may develop pressure sores. Patients who have trouble washing may get cracked or infected skin. Chronic leg ulcers are another problem, especially in patients with arterial disease or foot deformities. Some drugs will have a detrimental effect on the skin of older patients whose skin is thinner.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1999
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Hard graft
Article Abstract:
Areas where skin grafts have been removed should take between eight to 14 days to heal. However, complications include infection, dryness and dressings which aggravate the wound and prevent it healing properly. The area will be painful because nerve endings are exposed and pain relief is often needed. Researchers are experimenting with growth factors which will speed up the growth of new skin and this is useful if more skin is needed from the same area. More research is needed to find out the best ways of managing these wounds.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1997
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