Pressure Ulcers and Skin Care

•    Common sites:

o    Sacrum, heels, hips, ischial tuberosities

•    Risk factors:

o    Immobility

o    Poor nutrition (low albumin, weight loss)

o    Incontinence, moisture

o    Reduced sensory perception (neuropathy)

•    Staging:

o    Stage 1: non-blanching erythema

o    Stage 2: partial-thickness skin loss

o    Stage 3: full-thickness skin loss to subcutaneous fat

o    Stage 4: exposed muscle, tendon, or bone

•    Prevention:

o    Repositioning (at least every 2 hours if high risk)

o    Pressure-relieving devices (special mattresses, cushions)

o    Optimise nutrition and hydration