Wednesday, May 28, 2025

What to ask your doctor about skin care for your loved one who has limited mobility

When it comes to caring for a loved one at home, skin and hygiene care are not just comfort measures—they’re vital to preventing serious health issues like infections and pressure injuries.

 What Should We Be Doing?

1. What skincare routines or barrier creams are recommended?
Use gentle cleansers and barrier creams daily, especially for individuals with incontinence or dry skin.
PARENT CAREGIVING  is a website that sells trusted products for both moisture protection and skin hydration.

2. Should we be using moisture-wicking pads or incontinence products?
Yes. These products help protect the skin by keeping it dry and reducing irritation from prolonged moisture.

3. How often should skin be checked?
Check at least once daily—especially over pressure points like the tailbone, heels, elbows, and shoulders.

4. When should I call a doctor about redness?
If the skin stays red after relieving pressure, feels warm, or shows any open areas—it’s time to call a medical provider or wound care nurse.


🩺 Do I Need Home Care Support?

You don’t have to manage everything alone. Consider these questions:

1. Should we bring in home health nursing support?
Yes—especially if there's risk of infection, limited mobility, or wound care needs.

2. Can a wound care nurse evaluate the situation?
Absolutely. A trained nurse can assess skin breakdown and recommend effective treatments.

3. Are there local programs or medical supply resources available?
We can help connect you to community programs and reputable suppliers.

4. Can we learn how to turn or reposition our loved one properly?
Yes. Caregiver education is essential. We offer turning techniques and hands-on guidance through our NurseLynx platform.

5. Would physical or occupational therapy be beneficial?
Yes—mobility-focused therapy helps maintain independence and prevent pressure injuries.


Basic Questions to Ask the Doctor or Nurse:

  • What skin creams or ointments should we be using?
    Barrier creams and gentle moisturizers can help prevent skin damage.

  • Should we use special pads or incontinence supplies?
    Yes—moisture-wicking pads and quality incontinence products protect the skin and help keep it dry.

  • How often should we check their skin?
    At least once a day, especially on areas where they sit or lie down the most.

  • If we see redness or irritation—what do we do?
    Don’t wait. Call the doctor or nurse right away. Red skin could be an early sign of a pressure sore.

Doctor’s Note:
If you’re planning to get medical supplies like barrier creams or pressure-relieving mattresses covered by insurance or Medicare, you’ll need a doctor’s order. Ask your provider to help with this.


Next Steps & Communication

  • How often should we follow up to monitor skin integrity or equipment effectiveness?

  • What’s the best way to contact your office if we notice signs of skin breakdown?
  • Are there written care instructions you can provide for us at home. Contact us to have us assist you with this important process. Our care management system is designed to help. 

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    Need Help?

    Start by calling your local department of health or visiting Fe.NurseLynx.com to learn more about home care coordination portal. or call Nurselynx at  301-241-7374  nurselynx.com

    and speak with a counselor.

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