The Prevention and Treatment of pressure ulcers

Abstract

Pressure ulcers are still among the most costly, yet preventable, injuries with a high prevalence and incidence in acute and longterm care. This age-old problem is also commonly referred to as decubitus ulcers or bed sores. The aim of this article is to define what pressure ulcers are and to discuss the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. Risk assessment plays an important role in the prevention of pressure ulcers. This article will also provide the professional nurse with tools for this assessment.