Final answer:
Immobility can cause pressure ulcers by restricting blood flow to certain body parts and causing tissue damage. Regular repositioning, pressure-relieving devices, and good skincare can help prevent pressure ulcers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bedsores, also called decubitis ulcers, are caused by constant, long-term, unrelieved pressure on certain body parts that are bony, reducing blood flow to the area and leading to necrosis (tissue death). Immobility can cause pressure ulcers because when a person is unable to move or change positions regularly, the constant pressure on certain areas of the body can disrupt the blood flow to that area. This can lead to tissue damage and the development of pressure ulcers.
For example, if a person is bedridden and unable to shift their weight periodically, the bony prominences of their body, such as the hips, knees, and heels, will constantly be in contact with the bed surface. Over time, this constant pressure can restrict blood flow to those areas, causing the tissue to become damaged and ultimately leading to the formation of pressure ulcers.
To prevent the development of pressure ulcers, it is important for individuals who are immobile or have limited mobility to be repositioned regularly, use pressure-relieving devices (such as specialized mattresses or cushions), and practice good skincare to keep the skin clean and dry.