Pressure ulcer staging
There are four stages of pressure ulcer. In stage 1 pressure ulcer, it is an observable pressure. The first stage of pressure ulcer is indicated by the skin temperature, pain, itching and tissue consistency. Even darker skins, discoloration of the skins acts as indicators. The second stage of pressure ulcer is indicated by partial thickening and loss of skin including epidermis, dermis or even both. This stage of ulcer is superficial and it is presented as shallow crater. The third stage of pressure ulcer is indicated by full thickness skin loss. It also causes damage to the necrosis. They even extend to the fascia. The crater becomes further deep. The crater may or may not undermine the adjacent tissues. The fourth stage of pressure ulcer is also indicated by the full thickness skin loss. The destruction is more extensive. It causes damage to the muscles, bones and also to the supporting structures such as tendon and joint capsule. Undermining of the adjacent tissues takes place in the fourth stage of pressure ulcer. Also this stage is associated with sinus tracts. Even if the pressure ulcer is treated, the lost muscle, fats and dermis cannot be replaced. The pressure ulcer staging pictures helps in understanding each stage.
