Factors that contribute to pressure ulcer include:

Pressure:

heavy pressure blocks or occludes blood vessels. The greater the pressure the less time it takes to occlude. The smaller the area, the greater the pressure, hence bony areas are more prone to pressure sores.

Shear forces (friction):

Skin being pulled sideways over muscle or bone when moving can stretch and block the blood vessels, restricting blood flow to skin. Excessive shearing can affect deeper tissues. Necrosis (tissue death) can occur from inside and move out. Abrasion or friction causes the surface of the skin to be rubbed away faster than it can be replaced.

Temperature and moisture of skin:

excessive heat and moisture can contribute to the development of pressure sores. These factors can increase the vulnerability of tissues to damage from pressure and shear forces.

These areas are more subject to pressure sores are:

• Heels, Sacrum, Elbow, Ischial tuberosities, Hips

People at risk of pressure related problems:

• Paraplegics/quadriplegics, Frail elderly, Wheelchair users
• Sciatica - back pain, decreased sitting intolerance, Weight loss/chronically ill
• Surgery - decreased sitting tolerance

The aims of a pressure care product are:

• Increase the area of support and therefore distribute and decrease the pressure
• Re-distribute weight and pressure away from bony prominences
• Control temperature and moisture

Points to consider when selecting a pressure care product:

• The age, weight and height of a person
• Nature and degree of disability, physical capabilities and strength
• Lifestyle - activity and mobility, Duration of sitting or lying each day
• Balance and posture, Skin sensation, Pressure sore history - condition of skin
• Continence of person, Attitude and motivation to take responsibility for skin care.