Iatrogenesis in the elderly. Impaired skin integrity.

Risk factors that contribute to pressure ulcer formation include immobility and inactivity, age, malnutrition, fecal and urinary incontinence, and a decreased level of consciousness. Gerontological nurses should collaborate with other health disciplines (eg, the physician, physical therapist, and dietitian) to plan and provide preventive treatment measures for the elderly person with potential for impaired skin integrity: pressure ulcers. Gerontological nurses must continue the development and refinement of tools with which to predict the degree of risk for impaired skin integrity, as well as use a consistent method of grading pressure ulcers.