Heel ulcers in critical care units: a major pressure problem

Identification and prevention of a heel ulcer in the critical care unit requires timely, systematic, and aggressive therapeutic interventions. Effective assessment, together with simple awareness of those at high risk for breakdown, can facilitate reduction in partial- and full-thickness injuries that later require extensive treatment measures and possible limb loss. This article provides current information regarding risk assessment tools, lower extremity assessment of perfusion and neuropathy, and guidelines for intervention.