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Pressure Ulcers Occupational Therapy

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3<br />

What is a<br />

<strong>Pressure</strong> Ulcer?<br />

A pressure ulcer is an area of damaged tissue. It is caused by being in<br />

the same position for too long without moving. In some people this may<br />

not just be damage to the surface of the skin, but the deeper layers of<br />

tissue under the skin may also be affected. They are also known as<br />

bedsores or pressure sores.<br />

What are the Causes of a <strong>Pressure</strong> Ulcer?<br />

Prolonged unrelieved pressure<br />

The weight of the body can squash the skin and tissues causing<br />

damage.<br />

Shearing<br />

When you slide down the bed or are dragged up the bed, this may cause<br />

a strain on the skin and tissue layers. This may cause damage.<br />

Friction<br />

This occurs when two surfaces rub together i.e. skin rubbing against a<br />

chair or bed.

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