Nursing Component Task
Nursing procedures & clinical learning

General Nursing (RGN)

Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Areas

Nursing measures used to prevent pressure injury and provide appropriate care when pressure-related skin damage is identified.

Purpose

  • Prevent pressure injury.
  • Maintain skin integrity.
  • Reduce prolonged pressure and shear.
  • Promote healing where pressure injury exists.

Indications

  • Patients with reduced mobility.
  • Patients confined to bed or chair.
  • Patients with impaired sensation.
  • Patients at increased risk of pressure injury.

Equipment

  • Clean bed linen
  • Pressure-relieving equipment where indicated
  • Pillows or positioning aids
  • Skin-care materials
  • Appropriate dressing materials where prescribed

Procedure steps

  • Assess the patient's pressure-injury risk.
  • Inspect vulnerable pressure areas.
  • Maintain clean and dry skin.
  • Reposition the patient according to individual need and care plan.
  • Use appropriate pressure-relieving devices.
  • Avoid unnecessary friction and shear.
  • Maintain adequate nutrition and hydration as appropriate.
  • Provide wound care according to the patient's condition and prescribed plan.
  • Educate the patient and caregiver about pressure-injury prevention.
  • Document findings, interventions and patient response.

Precautions

  • Do not massage damaged skin.
  • Avoid prolonged pressure on vulnerable areas.
  • Maintain skin hygiene.
  • Use appropriate repositioning techniques.
  • Report deterioration promptly.

Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.

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