Pressure Ulcers

Question 1

What are the risk factors for pressure ulcers?

Answer 1

Age >70 years
Immobility
Recent surgery or ICU stay
Malnutrition

Question 2

Describe the grading system for pressure ulcers?

Answer 2

1 - erythema, with localised non-blanching erythema, no skin loss
2 - partial thickness skin loss, unexposed dermis
3 - full thickness skin loss
4 - full thickness skin loss with visible or palpable fascia
Ungradeable

Question 3

Describe the management of pressure ulcers?

Answer 3

Good wound care
Analgesia
Reduce moisture around site - consider catheter if incontinent
Optimise nutrition
Antibiotics only. if associated cellulitis, not based on wound swab
Surgical debridement if grade 3/4 and surgical candidate