Pressure ulcers don't affect everyone equally — specific risk factors significantly increase the likelihood. Knowing them helps focus prevention efforts on those most in need.
Major Risk Factors:
- Immobility: The most important factor — paralysis patients, hip fractures, coma, wheelchair users, ICU patients.
- Loss of sensation: Spinal cord injuries — patient doesn't feel pressure so doesn't reposition.
- Elderly (over 70): Skin becomes thinner and less resistant. Circulation is slower.
- Urinary or fecal incontinence: Continuous moisture softens skin and makes it prone to damage.
- Malnutrition and dehydration: Protein and vitamin deficiency weakens skin and slows healing.
- Diabetes: Slows healing and weakens immunity.
- Vascular disease: Reduces blood supply to skin.
- Extreme weight (underweight or obese): Underweight means more prominent bones. Obesity increases pressure.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we use the Waterlow or Braden scale to assess ulcer risk for each patient and create a customized prevention plan.