What is a Pressure Ulcer?
Pressure ulcers are commonly known as pressure sores or bed sores, and they most often affect people confined to bed or a chair. Pressure ulcers can vary in appearance and can be superficial or deep. Skin may be intact, appear as an abrasion or a deep opening in the skin. They usually occur over bony prominences such as the base of the spine, buttocks, heels or hips.
How is it caused?
Pressure ulcer forms where bones cause the greatest force on the skin. This results in localised damage to the skin and underlying skin, and is usually caused by:
- Pressure - caused by sitting or lying in one position for too long
- Shearing - caused by the body sliding down the bed or chair
- Friction - caused by skin rubbing on the bed or chair.