Protect your skin from injury Avoid massage of your skin over bony parts of the body. Massage may squeeze and damage the tissue under the skin and make you more likely to get pressure ulcers. Limit pressure over bony parts by changing positions or having your caregiver change your position. If you are in bed, your position should be changed at least every 2 hours. If you are in a chair, your position should be changed at least every hour.
Friction can rub off the top layer of skin and damage blood vessels under the skin.
If nurses or others are helping to lift you, bed sheets or lifters can be used. A thin film of cornstarch can be used on the skin to help reduce damage from friction. Donut-shape cushions can increase your risk of getting a pressure ulcer by reducing blood flow and causing tissue to swell. A special mattress that contains foam, air, gel, or water helps to prevent pressure ulcers. The cost and effectiveness of these products vary greatly.