PRESSURE ULCERS: ARE THEY CAUSED BY MALNUTRITION?

 Few physical conditions shock people more than pressure ulcers which were previously referred to as “bed sores.” The common notion was that they were caused by lack of mobility. These ulcers, upon reaching Stage IV, become deep, odorous and horrifying to family members. A recent effort by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Board advocates that all individuals be screened for nutrition problems on admission to a nursing home or hospital. The person’s weight and ability to eat independently and the adequacy of their intake of food and water must be assessed. A person’s diet may go a long way toward keeping skin breakdown and wounds from occurring.