ACUTE DECUBITUS Meaning and
Definition
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Acute decubitus, also known as acute pressure ulcers or bedsores, refers to damaged skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body. These ulcers typically occur in individuals who are bedridden or have limited mobility, preventing them from frequently changing positions and relieving pressure points.
Acute decubitus is characterized by localized areas of skin breakdown, which often start as inflammation or redness that does not fade with pressure relief. Over time, without adequate treatment and prevention, these areas progress to open sores with loss of skin or tissue layers, exposing muscle, bone, or other internal structures. The severity of acute decubitus can vary from superficial wounds to deeper, more complex ulcers.
Several factors contribute to the development of acute decubitus, including constant pressure, friction, and shear forces. Areas of the body most susceptible to these ulcers include bony prominences such as the sacrum, heels, hips, elbows, and back of the head. Other risk factors for acute decubitus include age, poor nutrition, moisture, and certain medical conditions.
Effective management of acute decubitus involves regular repositioning of the patient to alleviate pressure, maintaining good hygiene, ensuring proper nutrition and hydration, and using specialized cushions or mattresses to support the affected areas. Additionally, wound care interventions may include the application of dressings, topical medications, and debridement of necrotic tissue.
Prevention is crucial in minimizing the occurrence of acute decubitus, especially for individuals at high risk. This includes early identification of risk factors, promoting mobility and exercises to improve circulation, using pressure-reducing devices, and educating caregivers on proper prevention and care techniques.
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A severe form of bedsore, occurring in hemiplegia, of purely neurotrophic origin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ACUTE DECUBITUS
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Etymology of ACUTE DECUBITUS
The term "acute decubitus" stems from a combination of two separate origins:
1. Acute: The word "acute" comes from the Latin word "acutus", which means "sharp" or "pointed". It is commonly used in medicine to describe a condition that is severe, intense, or sudden in onset.
2. Decubitus: The word "decubitus" has Latin roots as well. It is derived from the verb "decumbere", which means "to lie down". In a medical context, "decubitus" refers to the act of lying down or the position of lying down for an extended period. It is most commonly associated with the term "bedsores" or "pressure ulcers", which are areas of damaged skin and tissue that result from prolonged pressure on the skin.
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