Pressure Sores

Question 1

Define Pressure Sores?

Answer 1

Damage to the skin, usually over a bony prominence, as a result of pressure

Question 2

What is the aetiology of Pressure Sores?

Answer 2

Constant pressure limits blood flow to the skin leading to tissue damage
They occur as a result of pressure, friction and shear

Question 3

What are the risk factors for Pressure Sores?

Answer 3

IMMOBILITY
Alzheimer’s Disease
Diabetes

Question 4

What is the epidemiology of Pressure Sores?

Answer 4

Very common in hospitals

Most commonly occurs in the ELDERLY

Question 5

What are the presenting symptoms and signs of Pressure Sores?

Answer 5

Occurs over bony prominences - most commonly the sacrum and heel
Pressure scores can be staged from Stage 1-4
They are very tender
They may become infected leading to fevers, erythema and foul smell

Question 6

What investigations would you do for Pressure Sores?

Answer 6

No investigations necessary

Clinical Diagnosis