PREVENTING pressure ulcers was the focus of an information stand at Airedale Hospital.

Members of the Steeton hospital's so-called tissue viability team issued advice to staff, patients and visitors.

The initiative was held as part of the awareness-raising World Wide Pressure Injury Prevention Day.

Nurse Katie Waddingham said: "It's important that anyone who spends a lot of time sitting or lying down knows how to check their skin regularly, and what to do if they notice early signs of pressure damage.

"Their carer, or a family member, may also help to check for skin changes. Signs include the skin looking red or purple; feeling too warm, too cold or numb; swelling, hardness and pain.

"The best way to prevent pressure ulcers is to keep moving.

"Moving and changing position lets your blood flow to all areas of your skin.

"Other preventative measures include keeping yourself clean and dry, and having a healthy diet and plenty of drinks such as water, juice, tea or coffee.

"Here at Airedale we monitor all our inpatients for pressure areas."

Pressure ulcers can affect any part of the body but are most common on bony parts, such as the heels, elbows, hips and base of the spine.

If left untreated, they may result in a deep wound which can become infected and, in serious cases, need surgery.

For more details, visit nhs.uk/conditions/pressuresores.