Hello Bahn123,
I just reviewed your previous post/question and the answer given by Dr. Chip. The area is probably a stasis ulcer (as Dr. Chip said), however you must be very careful in the treatment of this area to prevent infection and encourage healing. Otherwise the area will just get bigger and infection will eventually cause a systemic infection making her very ill.
First, you need to reduce the swelling and try to improve her very poor circulation. Do this by having her elevate her feet and lower legs above the level of her heart. If she sits in a recliner with the feet elevated, with an extra cushion on the foot rest to support her lower legs from knees to ankles, you should be able to accomplish this. The more she does this the better her circulation will be, and the faster the wound will heal.
Second, make sure she gets adequate amounts of fluids, and protein in her diet to support tissue regrowth. She should have at least 6 servings of protein per day, and 3 cups of nonfat milk. (or yogurt).
Third, you want to keep the wound covered, but don't let the wound bed dry out. If the wet-to-dry dressings cause bleeding, the wound is getting too dry. At this point you should use nonadherent dressings with a thin layer of antibiotic ointment applied to the dressing (not the wound). Cover the wound and wrap with an ace wrap to keep it in place (but not too snug). Never use tape on the skin. Cleanse the area with gauze and plain water (or better, some normal saline solution) before applying the dressing. Change it once or twice a day. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after all of this.
Ask your pharmacist for some help locating supplies: nonadherent dressing, gauze, saline solution and antibiotic ointment.
As Dr. Chip said, it sounds like this wound needs medical attention ASAP. So, keep after her about seeing her doctor. The treatment above is simple home care. She may need more aggressive wound management, especially if it gets any worse. The redness around the wound is not a good sign. You should watch her very carefully as this infection can get much more severe, and cause systemic illness.
If she won't go to see her doctor, perhaps you can call her doctor for advise. He may be able to give an order for a visiting nurse to see her; or at least give you some direction.
Nurse (RN)
35+ yrs skilled nursing experience; Dir of Nursing Skilled Nursing/Rehab; Elder Care Consultant