Pressure sores classification

A pressure sore is also called a decubitus ulcer and bed sore. A classification system for pressure sores is presented in Table 47-5. Many factors are thought to predispose patients to the formation of pressure ulcers paralysis, paresis, immobilization, malnutrition, anemia, infection, and advanced age. Four factors thought to be most critical to their formation are pressure, shearing forces, friction, and moisture however, there is still debate as to the exact pathophysiology of pressure sore formation. The areas of highest pressure are generated over the bony prominences. 

Numerous systems for classification of pressure sores have been described. The two most frequently used systems are those of Shea and the 1989 National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel. These classification systems define the various stages of progression through which a pressure sore may pass (Table 108-5). 

Wounds can be classified into acute wounds and chronic wounds. While acute wounds take only a few weeks to heal, chronic wounds require several months to heal completely. Chronic wounds include venous leg ulcers and pressure sores. The classification of wounds and healing process is depicted in Figs 6.1 and 6.2. Generally, the wound healing process involves three phases ... 

Classification Aliphatic carboxylic acid Empirical C8H16O2 Formula C4H9CH(C2Hs)COOH Properties Colorless liq., mild char, odor sol. in ether si. sol. in water, alcohol m.w. 144.21 dens. 0.9077 (20/20 C) vapor pressure 0.03 mm Hg (20 CO f.p. -83 C b.p. 226.9 C flash pt. 126 C Toxicology LD50 (oral, rat) 3000 mg/kg, (skin, rabbit) 126 mg/kg mild to mod. skin irritant severe eye irritant ing. may cause mild irritation, sore throat, abdominal pain, nausea. 

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