Pressure ulcers appear in specific areas where bone is close to the skin surface and differ based on the patient's usual position. Knowing these areas is essential for daily preventive inspection.
When Lying on Back:
- Sacrum: Lower back — the most common site overall (36% of all pressure ulcers).
- Heels: Second most common — concentrated pressure on a very small area.
- Back of head: Especially in children and elderly with thin hair.
- Shoulder blades and elbows.
When Lying on Side:
- Greater Trochanter: Side of hip — prominent bone under intense pressure.
- Lateral ankle: Outer ankle bone.
When Sitting (Wheelchair):
- Ischial Tuberosities: "Sitting bones" — bear all upper body weight.
- Coccyx (tailbone).
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we teach patients and families to inspect these areas daily using a mirror for areas that can't be seen.