PRESSURE ULCERS Meaning and
Definition
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Pressure ulcers, commonly known as bedsores or pressure sores, are localized injuries to the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure or friction on a particular part of the body. These sores commonly occur in individuals who have limited mobility and are incapable of changing positions frequently. Pressure ulcers typically develop in bony areas where the skin is compressed between a hard surface and bone, such as the heels, hips, elbows, and tailbone.
The development of pressure ulcers involves a three-stage process: pressure, ischemia, and tissue damage. Initially, continuous pressure on the affected area reduces blood flow to the tissues, leading to ischemia or inadequate oxygen supply. Over time, this causes the soft tissues to become damaged, leading to the formation of ulcers.
The severity of pressure ulcers is classified into four stages, based on the extent of tissue damage. In stage one, the skin appears red and does not blanch when pressed. In stage two, the skin may break open or form a shallow ulcer, indicating partial thickness skin loss. In stage three, the ulcer further extends into the deeper tissues, and in stage four, the ulcer reaches the underlying muscles, tendons, or bones.
Preventing pressure ulcers involves regular repositioning of immobile individuals, maintaining proper nutrition and hydration, and keeping the skin clean and dry. Treatment options for pressure ulcers include removing the source of pressure, cleaning the wound, using specialized dressings, and promoting wound healing with proper nutrition and medication. Severe cases may require surgical interventions such as debridement or skin grafts.
In conclusion, pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and underlying tissues due to prolonged pressure or friction, typically occurring in individuals with limited mobility. These ulcers follow a progressive process of pressure
Common Misspellings for PRESSURE ULCERS
- oressure ulcers
- lressure ulcers
- -ressure ulcers
- 0ressure ulcers
- peessure ulcers
- pdessure ulcers
- pfessure ulcers
- ptessure ulcers
- p5essure ulcers
- p4essure ulcers
- prwssure ulcers
- prsssure ulcers
- prdssure ulcers
- prrssure ulcers
- pr4ssure ulcers
- pr3ssure ulcers
- preasure ulcers
- prezsure ulcers
- prexsure ulcers
- predsure ulcers
Etymology of PRESSURE ULCERS
The word "pressure ulcers" can be broken down into two parts: "pressure" and "ulcers".
The term "pressure" comes from the Latin word "pressura", which means squeezing or pressing. In the medical context, it refers to the continuous force or pressure exerted on a particular area of the body.
The word "ulcer" has its roots in Latin as well. It comes from the Latin word "ulcus", which means a sore or wound. An ulcer is a localized area of damage on the skin or a mucous membrane, often resulting from inflammation, infection, or trauma.
When combined, "pressure ulcers" refer to wounds or sores that develop due to sustained pressure on a specific area of the body, typically encountered in individuals who are bedridden or immobile for prolonged durations.
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