Prevention and Management of Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers (also called pressure sores, bed sores and decubitus ulcers) are defined as, localised damage to the skin and/or underlying soft tissue, which usually occur over a bony prominence or related to a medical or other device. The injury occurs as a result of intense and/or prolonged pressure, or pressure in combination with shear. It can occur in any person, who, for example, cannot reposition themselves, have limited mobility, cognitive impairment, palliative and end-of-life care needs, or who are acutely ill. Other contributory factors include poorly controlled diabetes, poor bladder or bowel function, and poor nutrition and hydration.

For pressure damage it is important to determine if the damage is:

1. Healable within an individual’s life expectancy

2. Managed conservatively

3. Non-healable or palliative

4. Avoidable

5. Unavoidable

Pressure damage negatively affects quality of life and imposes a significant financial burden on healthcare systems.