Pressure ulcer prevalence, incidence, risk factors, and impact

Abstract

Pressure ulcers are a common problem among older adults in all health care settings. Prevalence and incidence estimates vary by setting, ulcer stage, and length of follow-up. Risk factors associated with increased pressure ulcer incidence have been identified. Activity or mobility limitation, incontinence, abnormalities in nutritional status, and altered consciousness are the most consistently reported risk factors for pressure ulcers. Pain, infectious complications, prolonged and expensive hospitalizations, persistent open ulcers, and increased risk of death are all associated with the development of pressure ulcers. The tremendous variability in pressure ulcer prevalence and incidence in health care settings suggests that opportunities exist to improve outcomes for persons at risk for and with pressure ulcers.