Preventing pressure injuries at home
What families can observe, how positioning helps and when skin changes need professional assessment.
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- published
- 29 September 2026published
- for role boundaries
- Reviewedfor role boundaries
- for emergencies
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Pressure injuries can develop when the same area of skin and tissue carries pressure for too long. Risk rises with limited mobility, moisture, poor nutrition and reduced sensation.
Look before there is an open wound
Early changes may be redness, warmth, firmness, pain or discolouration over bony areas. Darker skin tones may not show redness in the same way.
- Check heels, ankles, hips, tailbone, elbows and shoulder blades.
- Notice colour, temperature, swelling and tenderness.
- Do not massage an area that appears pressure-damaged.
- Ask a nurse or doctor to assess persistent changes.
Relieve pressure safely
Repositioning must reflect the person's condition, comfort and movement restrictions advised by the treating team.
- Create a written turning schedule if advised.
- Use safe handling rather than dragging across sheets.
- Keep heels protected from continuous pressure.
- Use pressure-relieving surfaces selected for the actual risk.
Support skin, moisture and nutrition
Clean, dry skin and adequate nutrition support tissue health, but do not replace pressure relief.
- Manage incontinence promptly and gently.
- Avoid harsh rubbing or very hot water.
- Follow clinical advice on protein, fluids and supplements.
- Seek urgent review for spreading redness, fever, odour, pus or deterioration.
Equipment needs clinical context
An air mattress can redistribute pressure, but it does not remove the need for positioning, skin inspection and a care plan. Ask the treating team which surface, settings and monitoring are appropriate.