Pressure Ulcer Information

Pressure ulcers result from long periods of uninterrupted pressure exerted on the skin, soft tissue, muscle, and bone. They occur more frequently over a bony prominence such as the sacrum, the hip, or the heel. Here is some more useful information about pressure ulcers:

• Two thirds of pressure ulcers occur in patients over 70 years of age
• Prevention is the most important factor in managing pressure ulcers
• Presentation of skin ulcer is described by stage, from erythema (stage 1) to full thickness and involvement of underlying bone or muscle (stage 4)
• Treatment involves repositioning/removal of pressure source and good wound care. Debridement and surgical reconstruction may be necessary for necrotic, deep, or poorly healing wounds. Treatment with appropriate antibiotics is indicated if cellulitis or osteomyelitis are present
• Urgent medical attention is required for patients with sepsis
• Prognosis for full healing of stage 1 and 2 pressure ulcers is good. Stage 3 and 4 pressure ulcers are much less likely to heal spontaneously even after months of conventional treatment, and if healed they are often associated with scarring. Surgical closure may be required

 Source: ClinicalKey.com