Dermatologic management
A lifelong complication of SCI, pressure ulcers may threaten not only quality of life but also life itself. Many factors contribute to tissue breakdown and eventual pressure ulcers, including low BP, immobility, friction and shearing forces, unrelieved pressure, moisture, poor nutrition, and nonadherence with preventive strategies.
Prevention and early detection are the cornerstones of pressureulcer management. Routinely inspect the patient’s skin and use an established skin risk assessment tool, such as the Braden scale. To address identified risk factors, develop a plan of care. Risk-reduction interventions include: