Pressure Ulcer - Decubitus Ulcers vs. Pressure Ulcers
NPSG 14 talks about the prevention of "healthcare-associated pressure ulcers" in the long term care population. What is the difference between "pressure ulcers" and "decubitus ulcers?"
Any examples are for illustrative purposes only.
"Pressure ulcer" is a broader term that includes decubitus ulcers but also includes any ulcerations associated with pressure (e.g. prosthetic limbs or dental prostheses). "Decubitus ulcer" refers to the breakdown of skin and subcutaneous tissue due to prolonged, unrelieved pressure over a bony prominence, often associated with malnutrition, paralysis, or physical deformity.
"Pressure ulcer" is a broader term that includes decubitus ulcers but also includes any ulcerations associated with pressure (e.g. prosthetic limbs or dental prostheses). "Decubitus ulcer" refers to the breakdown of skin and subcutaneous tissue due to prolonged, unrelieved pressure over a bony prominence, often associated with malnutrition, paralysis, or physical deformity.
Manual:
Nursing Care Center
Chapter:
National Patient Safety Goals NPSG
First published date: April 11, 2016
This Standards FAQ was first published on this date.
This page was last updated on October 29, 2021
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