The Causation and Prevention of Bed Sores

Summary

The best recognised and most widespread example of tissue necrosis is the ‘bed sore’. This is said to be the commonest iatrogenic disease and the bed has been called the most dangerous splint yet devised by mankind. Factors which may play a significant part in tissue necrosis are discussed, followed by the logistics of a programme to prevent the development of bed sores. It is suggested that the problem is one of economic feasibility rather than lack of preventive knowledge.