The less able you are to move around and change positions, the higher the risk of a pressure ulcer. Someone who can sit, stand and walk will have less risk than someone who cannot do these things, or requires help.
Your susceptibility to pressure damage also varies depending on the other physical things that can put you at risk and how severe they are.
Our research: also shows personal circumstances and situations can impact your risk. They can make it harder to prevent pressure ulcers forming.
You can’t always change physical things and personal circumstance or situations that increase your risk.
But there are some changes you can make to reduce risk or manage your risk.
Small changes to your routine can make a big difference and prevent pressure ulcers.
The interactive diagram below brings together things that have an impact on pressure ulcer development. Use the interactive diagram to identify the things that are relevant to you or the person you support. Click on each circle to find out more. This will help you consider your needs and plan a safe routine to prevent pressure ulcers.
It will also help you understand when your risk might change. When risk factors change it is important to adapt your prevention plans.
I have cerebral palsy and use a powered wheelchair. I would describe myself as very independent. I live alone and work for a bank. I love music and nature.
A few years ago I broke my arm. The injury made looking after myself more difficult. It was particularly hard to transfer in and out of my chair. For the first time in my adult life, I was reliant on my family for help.
I already knew a bit about pressure ulcer prevention. I had been taught to ‘lift and shift’ in my chair and to check my skin with a mirror. However, both of those things were much harder with a broken arm.
I caught my skin during a tricky transfer and ended up with a serious ulcer. The ulcer led to a lengthy stay in hospital and bedrest at home. I lost months of my life and missed out on a lot.
I didn’t think that an arm injury would lead to a pressure ulcer on my bottom. Looking back, I wish someone had spoken to me about how my risk could change and what to do when my usual routine wasn’t possible.
I am more vigilant now. If my routine changes, I make sure that I do everything I can to avoid getting another pressure ulcer.
If you would prefer a printed version, you can download the full guide as a PDF. This provides the same information in an easy-to-follow format that you can read offline, keep to hand, share with others, or take with you to appointments.
