Interrupting the pressure ulcer cycle

Pressure ulcers represent a significant health care problem for older adults and patients with chronic disease. The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) estimates that over 1 million people in America suffer from pressure ulcers. Reported pressure ulcer prevalence varies widely and pressure ulcer incidence is difficult and labor-intensive to track; however, nursing has both a responsibility and an opportunity to help decrease the number of individuals who suffer from pressure ulcers. This article suggests ways that nurses can assist with improving care for patients at risk for pressure ulceration.