Pressure ulcer management in the geriatric patient

OBJECTIVE: To increase the understanding of pharmacists and other health-system clinicians regarding pharmaceutical applications of pressure ulcer prevention and treatment in geriatric patients. DATA SOURCES: An extensive MEDLINE retrieval was conducted which encompassed the years 1967-1998; the search terms used included pressure sore, pressure ulcer, decubitus ulcer, and geriatrics. DATA SUMMARY: Pressure ulcers affect populations with limited mobility, reduced cognition, and less-independent activities of daily living, such as the elderly. Identification of the high-risk patient is required for successful prevention outcomes. For existing lesions, a variety of treatment modalities exist, not all of which have demonstrated therapeutic benefit. Given these options, clinicians are faced with treatment selection challenges that should be based on the clinical setting, available scientific evidence, and individualized patient care needs. CONCLUSIONS: Prevention of pressure ulcerations is imperative to reduce patient morbidity, mortality, and overall healthcare costs. Given the number of treatment options available, pharmacists can assist in the treatment selection process. Education of the patient and family regarding pressure ulcer prevention and treatment requires early and ongoing involvement by the interdisciplinary team.