Nutritional supplements in the treatment of pressure ulcers: practical perspectives

Because a pressure ulcer may be related to malnutrition, clinicians should assess patients' nutritional status and ensure that patients receive adequate nutrition to support healing. The Agency for Health Care Policy and Research's guideline Treatment of Pressure Ulcers outlines recommended calorie and protein levels for patients at risk for pressure ulcers and with pressure ulcers. This article focuses on practical aspects of providing adequate nutrition to patients with pressure ulcers, using a variety of products available for oral supplementation.