Print Handheld Contrast

Pressure Ulcer

Additional information: Staging a Pressure Ulcer chart

What is a Pressure Ulcer?

• A pressure ulcer is localized injury to the skin and/or underlying tissue usually over a bony prominence, as a result of pressure, or pressure in combination with shear and/or friction. A number of contributing or confounding factors are also associated with pressure ulcers; the significance of these factors is yet to be elucidated.

What are the Risk Factors Involved?

• Inability to perceive pressure
• Incontinence/Moisture
• Decreased activity level
• Inability to reposition
• Poor nutritional intake
• Friction and shear

Clinical Pearls: Calculate an individual’s risk assessment score using the Braden Risk Assessment Scale Select an appropriate support surface (static, dynamic, low air los, or air fluidized) according to the score on the Braden Risk Assessment Scale DO NOT reverse stage.  Stages define level of tissue injury, NOT progression of ulcer development or healing Reposition frequently; At least every 2 hours