ABSTRACT
Pressure ulcers are a common but preventable condition frequently seen in older adults and those with comorbid conditions. Pressure ulcers are a major psychological, physical, and social burden to patients, and often result in a significant decrease to their quality of life. Pressure ulcers vary in severity from reddening of the skin to deep craters with muscle and bone involvement. There are several risk factors for pressure ulcers: sustained pressure, shear and friction forces, moisture, impaired mobility, malnutrition, impaired sensibility, advanced age, and a history of previous pressure ulcers. The assessment and management of pressure ulcers require a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach in order to understand patients with ulcers. The pressure ulcer scale for healing tool was developed by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel as a quick and reliable tool to monitor the change in pressure ulcer status over time.
