The Different Stages of Decubitus Ulcers also known as Pressure Sores and Bed Sores

Written by Adam Peck Category: Elder Law January 26th, 2013 2 min read

If the skin is intact or appears red on a person whose skin color is lighter, then the person’s condition falls under stage I of pressure ulcers. Some other characteristics of the skin are that it does not lighten for a short period of time when it is touched and the site on the skin may feel painful, firm, soft and either warmer or cooler when compared to the skin that surrounds the site.

If the pressure ulcer is an open wound, then it is considered to be in stage II. In this stage both the upper layer of the skin and a part of the underlying layer are either damaged or even lost. The wound itself will look like a shallow and basin-like wound, red in color. In some cases, it may look like a blister.

If the decubitus ulcer, pressure sore or bed sore has become a deep wound and looks like a crater, then it is already in stage III. The loss of skin is present and even some fat is visible. It is common for the bottom of the ulcer to have some dead tissue of yellow color. At this stage it is not only the healthy layers of the skin that are damaged.

Stage IV is the final and most severe stage of pressure ulcers and bed sores. The wound on the skin will show muscle, bones and tendons and the bottom of it will usually contain slough which is dark in color. Multiple layers of skin are damaged in the final stage.

Every person whose movement is limited needs to make sure to inspect the skin almost daily as a part of routine nursing or home care. At the first signs of pressure ulcers the patients need to contact the doctor because there are a lot more chances of success if the condition is treated in the early stages. If a person experiences a fever or drainage or foul odor from the wound, he or she should immediately contact the doctor and be very concerned about deadly infection.

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Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.