Pressure Ulcers

Paper Summary:

This paper examines pressure ulcers and the possible causes for the occurrences. The paper provides a definition and discusses the four stages of severity of pressure ulcers. The paper also examines the complications that may result from pressure ulcers, such as sepsis and localized infections. In addition, the paper talks about prevention and treatment methods and the need to update and complete national records on pressure ulcer rates.

From the Paper:

"This often occurs when the patient or person stays in one position for a long time, such as after surgery or injury. The persistent pressure on that area of the skin reduces the blood supply and the affected tissue can die. First, it turns up as a reddened skin, then a blister, an open sore and, finally, a crater. It is most commonly found in areas where the bones are prominent. These are often the elbow, heels, hips, ankles, shoulders, back and the back of the head. Causes of pressure ulcers are being bedridden or in a wheelchair, skin fragility, chronic medical conditions, limited body movements, malnourishment, mental disability, older age, and urinary or bowel incontinence."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Allman R. M. et al (1995). Pressure Ulcer Risk Factors Among Hospitalized Patients with Activity Limitation. 5 pages. Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved on January 5, 2008 fromhttp://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/geriatrics/education/MedStudent/Geriatrics/SummerScholarsProgram/Section8.pdf
• Berman, K (2007). Pressure Ulcer. 1 web page. MedlinePlus: National Institute of Health
• Collins, N (2002). Vitamin C and Pressure Ulcers. 4 pages. Advances in Skin and Wound Care: Springhouse Corporation
• Cuddigan, J. et al (2001). Pressure Ulcers in America: Prevalence, Incidence and Implications for the Future. 9 pages. Advances in Skin and Wound Care: Springhouse Corporation
• Ferguson, M., et al (2000). Peptic Ulcer Management: the Importance of Nutrition. MedSurg Nursing: Jannetti Publications, Inc.

More papers on Pressure Ulcers:

• Research Paper # 70038 : "Pressure Ulcers in Geriatric Patients"
• Term Paper # 100009 : "Pressure Ulcers"
• Research Paper # 148532 : "Pressure Ulcers and Quality of Life"

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