An overview of tissue types in pressure ulcers: a consensus panel recommendation

Abstract

Pressure ulcer assessment is usually performed at the bedside by a clinician with minimal training in wound assessment. A multidisciplinary panel of United States' wound experts was assembled to provide anatomically accurate and practical terms associated with pressure ulcer assessment, healing, and nonhealing in order to help clinicians identify and describe tissue types and pressure ulcer stages. Specifically, anatomical markers and/or structures within the wound are described to facilitate tissue type identification and pressure ulcer staging. The panel agreed that the provision of a common language facilitates quality care across settings. Although some research has been conducted, additional studies to determine the validity and reliability of wound assessment and healing terms and definitions, as well as pressure ulcer staging systems, are needed.