Prevention and management of pressure ulcers in primary and secondary care: summary of NICE guidance

Pressure ulcers are serious and distressing, and they can affect people of any age. Not only do they increase mortality, result in extended hospital stays, and consume substantial healthcare resources, they are often an example of avoidable harm. Reported prevalence rates range from 4.7% to 32.1% in hospital populations and as much as 22% in nursing home populations.1 Prevention of this devastating condition must be a priority for the NHS. Stage 1 pressure ulcers (see box for definition of stages) can be reversible if identified promptly, and most stage 2 and 3 ulcers can be healed with appropriate care, but all require a multidisciplinary approach for effective management. It is hoped that this guideline will help reduce pressure ulcers nationally and improve care when pressure ulcers do occur.