Pressure injuries develop from prolonged pressure on bony prominences, impairing localized tissue perfusion.
Pressure Injury Stages
- Stage 1: Non-blanchable erythema of intact skin.
- Stage 2: Partial-thickness skin loss with exposed dermis (shallow open ulcer or blister).
- Stage 3: Full-thickness skin loss showing subcutaneous fat.
- Stage 4: Full-thickness skin and tissue loss exposing muscle, tendon, ligament, or bone.
- Unstageable: Eschar or slough obscures the depth of tissue loss.
Prevention Rule: Turn and reposition immobile patients at least every 2 hours; keep skin clean, dry, and hydrated.
