Pressure Ulcers in the Elderly

Course Summary

Pressure ulcers are wounds in the skin that are caused by prolonged immobility. The elderly are at high risk for developing pressure ulcers. The severity of pressure ulcers can range from red and painful areas of the skin to an open wound that extends to muscle, tendon, and bone. When there is a break in the skin, infection often occurs and an infected pressure ulcer is associated with serious complications such as osteomyelitis and sepsis. Skin that is thin and areas of bony prominence, such as the hips, elbows, spine, and other bony areas are commonly at risk of developing pressure ulcers. The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel has provided definitions of the stages of development of a pressure ulcer and is a recommended resource for all healthcare workers.