From the Research
Stages of Pressure Ulcer Grading
The stages of pressure ulcer grading are not explicitly defined in the provided studies. However, the studies mention the classification systems for decubitus ulcers, which include:
- A two-category classification proposed by 1, which includes superficial ulcers predominantly caused by friction and deep ulcers predominantly caused by pressure.
- The original staging system established by Shea, which was based on the pathology involved in pressure ulcer development 2.
- The current staging system, which was intended to establish the level of tissue damage, but has limitations, such as the inability to differentiate between an inflammatory response involving intact skin and a deep tissue injury underneath intact skin 2.
Classification Systems
The classification systems for decubitus ulcers are based on the location and severity of the injury, and include:
- Stage 1: Non-blanchable erythema
- Stage 2: Partial-thickness skin loss
- Stage 3: Full-thickness skin loss
- Stage 4: Full-thickness skin and tissue loss
- Unstageable: Unable to stage due to presence of slough or eschar
- Suspected deep tissue injury: Purple or maroon localized area of discolored intact skin 2, 3, 4
Key Points
- The classification systems for decubitus ulcers are not universally agreed upon, and different systems may be used in different clinical settings 2, 3, 4.
- The staging of pressure ulcers is an important aspect of wound assessment and care, but can be challenging due to the limitations of the current staging system 2.
- A team-focused approach to care, including pressure relief, infection control, nutrition, and surgery, may improve healing rates and outcomes for patients with decubitus ulcers 3, 4.