Prevention and rehabilitation of pressure ulcers.

Pressure ulcers continue to constitute a major medical problem that interferes with the care of elderly and debilitated patients and patients with paralysis and anesthesia, such as spinal cord-injured patients. In spite of the great advances made in modern medical care, too little attention has been paid to the prevention of pressure ulcers. Preventive measures must be based on education of the patient, the family, and all involved professional personnel. Patients and personnel must be constantly reminded of the etiology, pathology, and cost of ischemic ulcers. They must also be convinced that pressure ulcers can be prevented through diligent and enlightened nursing attention and self-care. The importance of providing pressure relief to the areas supporting the weight of the body must continue to be stressed and materials and methods must never be substituted for sound nursing care.