Geriatric Quick Consult      Pressure Ulcers      Don't #2

Don't forget to turn the patient over.
Knowledge Action

A complete daily skin exam is essential to identifying skin damage and areas at risk.

Deeper tissues are often damaged first, with the skin being the last layer to show pressure injury1.

Anywhere skin overlies a bony prominence can be affected.

Most common areas affected:

  1. Sacrum
  2. Ischial tuberosities
  3. Greater trochanters
  4. Heels
  5. Lateral malleoli.
  • Complete daily skin exam, especially "forgotten" areas like the heels.


  • Note non-blanching erythema
    (Stage I).
Remember that external devices that produce localized pressure can also lead to skin breakdown.

Be sure to remove elastic stockings and other devices (e.g., splints) for full assessment.

LOOK AT HEELS.
  • LOOK AT HEELS.


  • Remove elastic stockings and other devices (e.g. splints) as needed.

References:

  1. Bergstrom N, Bennett A, Carlson CE, et al. Clinical Practice guideline Number 15: Treatment of pressure ulcers.
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