Pressure ulcers in long-term care.

Pressure ulcers are common, costly, and debilitating chronic wounds, which occur preferentially in people with advanced age, physical or cognitive impairments, and multiple comorbidities. Residents with pressure ulcers have decreased quality of life and increased morbidity and mortality, and facilities with high rates of pressure ulcers have higher costs and risks of litigation. Health professionals who practice in this setting should be well versed in pressure ulcer management. This article reviews the significance, risk factors, pathophysiology, prevention, diagnosis, and management of pressure ulcers in long-term care.