Older children may wish to examine their own skin using a hand-held mirror to inspect all areas of the body for signs of problems. Observe for pressure areas, rashes, swelling, bruises, excessive dryness, sores, cuts or abrasions. If the discoloration disappears in less than 30 minutes, the pressure relief schedule you are using is working well. If discoloration is lasting over 30 minutes, you must decrease the amount of time between turns and weight shifts until discoloration disappears in less than 30 minutes. Children in wheelchairs must ease pressure on their backs and buttocks.
Patients can also move from side to side or lean forward for pressure relief in a chair.
Use cushions specially designed to help reduce pressure. Always sit the child on a special cushion, as ordered by your doctor. In bed, use pillows under the calves to elevate the heels off of the bed. The heels are very prone to breakdown since the skin overlying them is very thin. Bed linens and clothing should be kept clean and dry.