--- title: Treating the Whole Patient Not Just the Hole in the Patient description: Effective pressure injury care can be achieved only when the full range of a patient’s medical needs and quality of life issues are addressed. Learn more: image: https://www.encompassgroup.com/hubfs/shutterstock_470963867.jpg --- [Encompass Group, LLC encompass-logo ](https://www.encompassgroup.com/) ***Search on website* [login/](http://www.encompassgroup.net/myencompass/login/)[register](http://www.encompassgroup.net/myencompass/login/) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. ![Blog_1](https://www.encompassgroup.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog_1.jpg?width=1920&name=Blog_1.jpg "Blog_1") # Treating the Whole Patient Not Just the Hole in the Patient - [Home](https://www.encompassgroup.com/) - [Blog ](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog) - Treating the Whole Patient Not Just the Hole in the Patient [![Share on Facebook](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/facebook-24x24.png)](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.encompassgroup.com%2Fblog%2Ftreating-the-whole-patient-not-just-the-hole-in-the-patient%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dfacebook) [![Share on LinkedIn](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/linkedin-24x24.png)](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.encompassgroup.com%2Fblog%2Ftreating-the-whole-patient-not-just-the-hole-in-the-patient%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dlinkedin) [![Share on Twitter](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/twitter-24x24.png)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.encompassgroup.com%2Fblog%2Ftreating-the-whole-patient-not-just-the-hole-in-the-patient%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dtwitter&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.encompassgroup.com%2Fblog%2Ftreating-the-whole-patient-not-just-the-hole-in-the-patient%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dtwitter&source=tweetbutton&text=Treating%20the%20Whole%20Patient%20Not%20Just%20the%20Hole%20in%20the%20Patient) [![Share on Email](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/email-24x24.png)](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.encompassgroup.com%2Fblog%2Ftreating-the-whole-patient-not-just-the-hole-in-the-patient%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Demail%20&body=Check%20out%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.encompassgroup.com%2Fblog%2Ftreating-the-whole-patient-not-just-the-hole-in-the-patient%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Demail) ![shutterstock_470963867](https://www.encompassgroup.com/hs-fs/hubfs/shutterstock_470963867.jpg?width=1000&name=shutterstock_470963867.jpg) Wound Specialists know that effective pressure injury care can be achieved only when the [full range of a patient’s medical needs](https://www.americannursetoday.com/solve-causes-pressure-injuries/) and quality of life issues are addressed. This philosophy is commonly summed up with [the maxim](https://www.woundsresearch.com/article/editorial-message-psychology-wound-healing): “Treat the whole patient, not just the hole in the patient.” In most cases, a pressure injury (PI) is not the primary reason a patient is admitted to the hospital. Instead, it is an unfortunate consequence of poor health and immobility, which results in the severe breakdown of the skin. On one side of the equation are the patient’s internal factors that reduce the skin’s tolerance to pressure. These include [diseases and chronic conditions](https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-018-0997-7) that impede blood and oxygen flow to the tissues, reduce nerve sensation, or impair lymph function. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, poor nutrition, and depressed immune system are all common PI risk factors. On the other side of the equation are the external forces that weaken the skin and diminish its capacity to withstand pressure. Moisture, shear, and friction all contribute to skin breakdown. Against this backdrop of internal and external factors, patients with limited ability to move on their own or change body positions may become especially vulnerable to PIs. Addressing the many facets of PI prevention requires [a collaborative effort by a multidisciplinary clinical team](http://fliphtml5.com/zlds/pmju/basic), beginning when a patient first enters the hospital. Upon admission, a thorough skin check should be conducted to assess skin integrity and potential problem areas should be noted. In addition, medical issues such as poor nutrition, dehydration, insufficient circulation, or lack of nerve sensation which put the patient at higher risk should be identified and communicated to the appropriate clinical specialists. Similar documentation should be done at the beginning of each nursing shift when a patient’s condition changes, and upon transfer to a different nursing unit, medical department, or discharge from the hospital. Related: See our resource on [pressure injury prevention](https://www.encompassgroup.com/pressure-injury/airisana-pressure-injury-prevention-guide) & treatment in healthcare facilities. In addition, the use of a [multifunctional therapeutic support mattress](https://woundcareadvisor.com/understanding-therapeutic-support-surfaces-vol3no3/) can be beneficial in alleviating external risks to the patient’s skin integrity.  The most effective therapeutic surfaces redistribute the pressure load of the patient’s body mass over the greatest possible skin area. Targeted airflow to manage the skin’s microclimate combined with a surface material that allows the patient’s body to glide easily without undue tissue distortion are also key features. However, many therapeutic support surfaces that are initially beneficial grow less successful in preventing PIs over time. This phenomenon occurs because the patient’s body becomes acclimated to anticipated pressure patterns. This adaptation process, known as allostasis, eventually slows healing.  Another obstacle clinicians sometimes encounter when trying to treat the whole patient is that traditional therapeutic support surfaces and pressure injury treatments may not be well suited to the needs of other members of the patient care team. [More than 90 percent of people](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/top-7-reasons-pressure-ulcer-rates-are-still-going-up-in-hospitals) being treated for pressure injuries are also receiving care for other conditions such as pneumonia, nutritional disorders, diabetes, septicemia, UTIs, and musculoskeletal injuries. Therefore, it’s important that pressure injury prevention and treatment doesn’t benefit one care discipline while presenting challenges for others. The power-active Airisana™ is an all-encompassing therapeutic support surface for the treatment of pressure injuries and more.  Its unique design incorporates multiple therapies for pressure control and microclimate management, which can replace up to 5 surface types in one easy-to-use surface - [An alternating pressure mattress](https://www.encompassgroup.com/airisana-therapeutic-support-mattresses) - [A lateral rotation mattress](https://www.encompassgroup.com/airisana-therapeutic-support-mattresses) - [A low air loss mattress](https://www.encompassgroup.com/airisana-therapeutic-support-mattresses) - [An Immersion/envelopment mattress](https://www.encompassgroup.com/airisana-therapeutic-support-mattresses) - [A lateral rotation mattres](https://www.encompassgroup.com/airisana-therapeutic-support-mattresses) The smart control unit, innovative pressure therapy combination, and stabilized bedside construction makes it possible for clinicians from multiple disciplines to deliver a variety of bedside therapies.  [Click here](https://www.encompassgroup.com/therapeutic-support-mattresses) to learn more about the wide range of Airsana™ Therapeutic Support Mattresses.   [![Find Out More About Pressure Injury Prevention Strategies](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3378591/76fb615c-53c3-44d7-ae2f-4a03916773fc.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3378591/76fb615c-53c3-44d7-ae2f-4a03916773fc) [Pressure Injuries](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/tag/pressure-injuries) [Michelle Daniels](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/author/michelle-daniels) Michelle Daniels is the Managing Director, TPF & TSS Brands for Encompass Group. She can be reached at [michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net ](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) [## Make non-covered conditions a non-issue From coordinated apparel and comforting textiles, to therapeutic support systems and feather beds, we partner with our valued customers to create warm, welcoming and healing environments. [![contact us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3378591/e21533e9-d8d3-416b-8fe9-b65c509bf157.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3378591/e21533e9-d8d3-416b-8fe9-b65c509bf157) ](mailto:michelle.daniels@encompassgroup.net) ## Related Articles #### [The Evolution of Pressure Injuries:...](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/the-evolution-of-pressure-injuries) By Kristy Warren Director, Clinical Resources Encompass Group, LLC [READ MORE](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/the-evolution-of-pressure-injuries) #### [Maximize Your Revenue Recovery with a...](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/maximize-your-revenue-recovery-with-a-multipurpose-solution) COVID-19’s unprecedented effect on population health worldwide will be with us forever. The suffering and loss.. [READ MORE](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/maximize-your-revenue-recovery-with-a-multipurpose-solution) #### [Preventing Pressure Injuries Improves...](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/preventing-pressure-injuries-improves-outcomes-relieves-staff) From long-term care (LTC) facilities, to rehabilitation hospitals, to short-term acute care, care staffs are constantly.. [READ MORE](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/preventing-pressure-injuries-improves-outcomes-relieves-staff) [![Encompass Group](https://www.encompassgroup.com/hubfs/Assets%20April%202018/encompass-logo-white.svg "Encompass Group")](https://www.encompassgroup.com/) 615 Macon Street McDonough, GA 30253 [800-245-4636](tel:800-245-4636) [info@encompassgroup.net](mailto:info@encompassgroup.net) [privacy policy and Terms and Conditions](https://www.encompassgroup.com/privacy_policy)[California Supply Chain Act](https://www.encompassgroup.com/california-supply-chain-act) ©2024 Encompass Group, LLC. All rights reserved. ##### Who We are Encompass is one of the leading manufacturers and marketers of reusable textiles, professional apparel, therapeutic support surfaces and disposable and single use medical products.   By focusing on innovation, product knowledge and customer service, we strive to always meet the needs of our clients and surpass their expectations. We are proud to be a privately held company. ##### navigation - [Home](https://www.encompassgroup.com) - [About Us](https://www.encompassgroup.com/about_us) - [Latest News](https://www.encompassgroup.com/latest-news) - [Instructions For Use](https://www.encompassgroup.com/ifu) - [Blog](https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog) - [Contact Us](https://www.encompassgroup.com/contact-us) ##### CONNECT - [** Let's get social on Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/company/encompass-group-llc/) - [** Let's get social on Twitter](https://twitter.com/EncompassGrpLLC) - [** Let's get social on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/EncompassGroupLLC) - [** Let's get social on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/EncompassGrpLLC) [Follow us on various social media platforms View More](https://www.encompassgroup.com/encompass-connect) ![](https://px.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=2611137&fmt=gif) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "NewsArticle", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Michelle Daniels" }, "dateModified" : "2020-11-16T08:00:00+08:00", "datePublished" : "2019-12-10T08:00:00+08:00", "headline" : "Treating the Whole Patient Not Just the Hole in the Patient", "image" : [ "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/3378591/shutterstock_470963867.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.encompassgroup.com/blog/treating-the-whole-patient-not-just-the-hole-in-the-patient", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://f.hubspotusercontent40.net/hubfs/3378591/encompass-logo.svg" }, "name" : "Encompass Group, LLC." } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://www.schema.org", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "USA", "addressLocality" : "McDonough", "addressRegion" : "GA", "postalCode" : "30253", "streetAddress" : "615 Macon Street " }, "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "email" : "info@encompassgroup.net", "telephone" : "1-800-284-4540" }, "description" : "Encompass Group is a leading manufacturer and marketer of textiles, apparel, therapeutic support services, and single-use medical products.", "geo" : { "@type" : "GeoCoordinates", "latitude" : "33.4302146", "longitude" : "-84.1485054" }, "hasMap" : "https://www.google.com/maps/place/Encompass+Group+LLC/@33.4302146,-84.1485054,17z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x88f45babd3130f13:0xa7cf7df0f78bcf5a!2s615+Macon+St,+McDonough,+GA+30253,+USA!3b1!8m2!3d33.4302146!4d-84.1463167!3m4!1s0x88f45baa2188592f:0x12c712473488d43c!8m2!3d33.4301033!4d-84.1462326", "logo" : "https://f.hubspotusercontent40.net/hubfs/3378591/encompass-logo.svg", "name" : "Encompass Group, LLC.", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.linkedin.com/company/encompass-group-llc/", "https://twitter.com/EncompassGrpLLC", "https://www.youtube.com/user/EncompassGroupLLC", "https://www.facebook.com/EncompassGrpLLC" ], "url" : "https://www.encompassgroup.com/" } ```