Nutrition plays an important role in the healing process of a pressure injury. Eating a wide variety of foods ensures that you are getting enough nutrients to support wound healing.
If you have a pressure injury, you will need more calories. If you are struggling to gain weight, you may need to add more calories to your meals. Eating more calories helps your body not rely on protein for energy during stress or illness. The recommended amount of calories for a person with a pressure injury is 30-35 per kilogram body weight per day (adjust for those underweight or obese). For people with a pressure injury, it is best to eat more snacks or smaller, frequent meals so that you don’t feel too full to eat more. Good sources of calories include oral nutrition supplements, nuts, seeds, and nut butters, vegetables, butter, cream, avocados, and dried fruit.
A. Clean and Care for the Wound Step-by-step guidance on cleaning the wound Appropriate wound dressings and their usage How to change dressings and keep the wound area clean
B. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle The importance of a well-balanced diet in wound healing Encouraging regular exercise for improved circulation and overall health Emphasizing adequate hydration and its impact on the healing process
C. Follow Medical Recommendations Stressing the importance of following prescribed medications and treatments Highlighting the role of regular check-ups and wound assessments Encouraging open communication with healthcare professionals
D. Monitor and Recognize Signs of Infection Educating on common signs of infection (e.g., redness, increased pain, discharge) Explaining when to seek immediate medical attention Offering tips for infection prevention
E. Be Patient and Stay Positive Setting realistic expectations for the healing timeline Encouraging a positive mindset and stress reduction techniques Sharing success stories of individuals who experienced successful wound healing By understanding the stages of wound healing and implementing proper wound care techniques, you can significantly contribute to a smoother and faster recovery process.