Pressure Ulcers (Sores) and Moisture-Associated Damage

Question 1

Risk factors for pressure ulcers

Answer 1

Malnourishment

Incontinence

Lack of mobility

Pain (leads to a reduction in mobility)

Question 2

What scoring system is used for patients at risk of pressure ulcers?

Answer 2

Waterlow score

Question 3

What factors are included in the Waterlow score?

Answer 3

BMI

Nutritional status

Skin type

Mobility

Continence

Question 4

Management of pressure ulcers

Answer 4

Moist wound environment

Hydrocolloid dressings and hydrogels

Use of soap discouraged to avoid drying wound

Systemic antibiotics if evidence of surrounding cellulitis

Consider referral to tissue viability nurse

Surgical debridement may be beneficial for selected wounds