Risk factors and pressure areas interview
There are significant risk factors that contribute to pressure ulcers. Firstly remember reduced mobility increases the risk significantly. If a person lies or sits in one position for an extended period and is unable to move themselves to relieve pressure and they are frail they can develop pressure areas very quickly.
Factors which can increase the risk of pressure areas developing include:
- poor nutrition or malnutrition
- moisture or sweating
- weight gain or loss
- reduced levels of consciousness or sensation (for example, due to stroke)
- diabetes
- chronic heart failure
- heart disease
- reduced tissue oxygenation (for example, from smoking or anaemia)
- cancer
- lung disease (for example, emphysema)
- chest infection
- poor circulation
- immune deficiency
Remember to monitor all residents especially those who are frail, and look out for pressure areas.
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