A Caregiver’s Guide: How to Safely Rotate a Loved One to Prevent Bedsores
One of the most critical responsibilities of a family caregiver is managing the physical positioning of a bedridden loved one. When a person is unable to move independently, the simple act of sitting or lying in the same spot for hours can lead to serious medical complications. Pressure injuries, or bedsores, develop when blood flow is cut off from the skin for too long. Learning the proper technique for "repositioning" is not just about preventing wounds; it is about protecting your own physical health as well. Back injuries are incredibly common among caregivers who attempt to lift or shift a patient without the right strategy. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to safely rotating your loved one, ensuring their skin stays healthy while you stay injury-free. Understanding the "Rule of Two Hours" The clinical standard for preventing pressure ulcers is to change a patient's position at least every two hours . This timeframe is based on how quickly skin t...