248 Pressure sores (bedsores)
Salient features
Examination
Fig. 248.1 (A) Pressure ulcer at first visit. (B) Clean sacral pressure sore.
(With permission from Levi, Rees 2007.)
• Look for pressure sores elsewhere, particularly the skin overlying the occiput, ears, elbows, hips and ankles.
• Comment on any obvious paralysis or incontinence (the latter contributes to ulcers in the sacral areas).
• Comment on skin traction or any orthopaedic splints (as 70% are orthopaedic patients).
• Tell the examiner that you would like to culture and biopsy the ulcer if it has not been healing properly or looks suspicious.
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