Pressure ulcer incidence and severity in a community hospital.

In a study of 1320 adult patients admitted to a community hospital, there was a pressure ulcer incidence rate of 8.4%, with 3.2% of pressure ulcers present on admission. Of the 190 ulcers found, 63% (n = 120) were hospital acquired and were less severe than those present on admission. There was an average of 1.6 ulcers per patient; 56.3% (n = 107) were Stage I ulcers and 36.3% (n = 69) were Stage II ulcers. The most frequent sites were coccyx-sacral area, heels, and elbows. Preventive measures used most frequently were turning, special mattresses, and special skin care. After a pressure ulcer developed, the most frequently used treatment measures were special bed or mattress, frequent turning, and special ointments and dressings.