What are pressure ulcers?

Patients suffering from illnesses that confine them to bed for a long time are exposed to the hazard of developing pressure ulcers (pressure ulcers) which in medical jargon are called decubitus ulcers.

Pressure ulcers are injuries to skin and/or underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure or friction or a combination of both, on the skin, usually developing on bony areas of the body. 

Pressure ulcer is a wound that develops on the spot of continued pressure between prominent body parts and the base.

It most frequently appears in the lumbar area, on the hips, heels, back of the head, elbow, shoulder-blades – the parts of the body that are in direct contact with the base.

Pressure ulcers are an unpleasant and painful side effect of many diseases during which patients are constrained to bed for a long time.

Pressure ulcers are a complication that may cause numerous problems, not only to the ones affected, but also to their closest persons and to the healthcare personnel. Caring for the patients with pressure ulcers is a challenge for the healthcare service, in particular from the aspect of costs involved

Most pressure ulcers can be prevented by early identifying those who are in the risk group and taking selective medical precautions and healthcare.