Skin changes at life's end: SCALE ulcer or pressure ulcer?

Pressure ulceration causes much distress to patients and family, and can be taken as an indication of poor nursing care. It is vital that both parties understand when pressure damage can be prevented, and those circumstances when skin failure at the end of life cannot be avoided. Appropriate risk assessment, provision of all appropriate care, and use of pressure relieving equipment to minimize the risk of any loss of skin integrity are required. The recognition of Skin Changes at Life's End (SCALE) ulcers may herald the imminent demise of a loved one. Families require support and good communication from nursing staff at this difficult time.