Shear and Friction in Pressure Ulcer Development
While the major factor in the development of pressure injury is pressure itself, shear forces also play a part. What causes shear and friction? When you move over a surface and the body remains in contact with it, the skin can be pulled along that surface. You can feel this ‘drag’ effect if you run […]
Risk Factors for Pressure Ulcer Development
Who is at Risk of Developing Pressure Ulcers? The risk of developing a pressure ulcer is affected by many health and environment-associated factors. In fact, more than 100 risk factors for pressure ulcers have been identified. This means that anyone can get a pressure ulcer, although the following factors can make them more likely to […]
Preventing Pressure Ulcer Development
Pressure ulcers can develop rapidly given the right conditions. Not all risk factors can be controlled. However, the key risk factors affecting the individual should be taken into account as part of a pressure ulcer prevention strategy. Preventive measures should include: Risk assessment to identify key risk factors that put the individual at higher risk […]
Common Sites for Pressure Ulcer Development
Pressure ulcers are damage caused by pressure and / or shear. What are the common sites for pressure ulceration? The areas that are particularly prone to pressure sores are those that cover the bony areas such as: Heels Ankles Buttocks Shoulders Spine Backs or sides of the knees Toes and feet Back of the […]
How Pressure Ulcers Develop
What are pressure ulcers? Pressure ulcers – also referred to as pressure damage, pressure injuries, bedsores or decubitus ulcers – are usually seen on the skin as red, purple or discoloured areas, which may progress into blistering or open wounds. These can develop on bony areas of the body such as the back, bottom or […]