Where are pressure ulcers most likely to develop?

Where are pressure ulcers most likely to develop?

• A. Over bony prominences due to external pressure
• B. Over soft tissue away from bones
• C. On mucous membranes
• D. On the face from sun exposure

Answer: (A)

Pressure ulcers develop where constant external pressure compresses blood vessels and stops perfusion, leading to ischemia and tissue death. The most vulnerable spots are over bony prominences that have little cushioning between bone and surface, so the tissue between bone and the external source is pressed hardest. That’s why ulcers are most likely to form over areas like the sacrum, heels, and other bony prominences, especially with limited mobility. Areas with soft tissue away from bone have more padding and are less prone to this direct pressure-induced ischemia. Mucous membranes and sun-exposed facial skin aren’t typical sites for pressure ulcers caused by external pressure, since they don’t have the same close-to-bone compression.

Pressure ulcers develop where constant external pressure compresses blood vessels and stops perfusion, leading to ischemia and tissue death. The most vulnerable spots are over bony prominences that have little cushioning between bone and surface, so the tissue between bone and the external source is pressed hardest. That’s why ulcers are most likely to form over areas like the sacrum, heels, and other bony prominences, especially with limited mobility. Areas with soft tissue away from bone have more padding and are less prone to this direct pressure-induced ischemia. Mucous membranes and sun-exposed facial skin aren’t typical sites for pressure ulcers caused by external pressure, since they don’t have the same close-to-bone compression.