Pressure ulcers, outcomes, and the nursing shortage.

The incidence of pressure ulcers is dependent on a number of variables. This article argues that the current and upcoming nursing shortage will adversely influence the pressure ulcer-related goals of public policy initiatives that strive to reduce the humanistic and cost burden of certain chronic conditions. The current state of the nursing shortage is described herein, along with examples of legislation proposed to control for this crisis and a consideration of the just distribution of goods and services (e.g., pressure ulcer care). Also provided is the voice of a nurse profoundly affected by the situation--a consideration of real and perceived threats to care.