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Pressure ulcer

Alternative Names: Bedsore; Decubitus ulcer Symptoms: Pressure sores are categorized by severity, from Stage I (earliest signs) to Stage IV (worst): Stage I: A reddened area on the skin that, when pressed, is "non-blanchable" (does not turn white). This indicates that a pressure ulcer is starting to develop. Stage II: The skin blisters or forms an open sore. The area around the sore may be red and irritated. Stage III: The skin breakdown now looks like a crater where there is damage to the tissue below the skin. Stage IV: The pressure ulcer has become so deep that there is damage to the muscle and bone, and sometimes tendons and joints. References: Text Continues Below Brillhart B. Pressure sore and skin tear prevention and treatment during a 10-month program. Rehabil Nurs. 2005; 30(3): 85-91. de Laat EH, Scholte op Reimer WJ, van Achterberg T. Pressure ulcers: diagnostics and interventions aimed at wound-related complaints: a review of the literature. J Clin Nurs. 2005; 14(4): 464-472. Cole L, Nesbitt C. A three year multiphase pressure ulcer prevalence/incidence study in a regional referral hospital. Ostomy Wound Manage. 2004; 50(11): 32-40.

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