The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) has announced a change in terminology from pressure ulcer to pressure injury; also updating the stages of pressure injury.

NPUAP believes the change to pressure injury vs. pressure ulcer more accurately describes pressure and shear-related injuries to both intact and ulcerated skin.

Pressure Injury:

A pressure injury is localized damage to the skin and/or underlying soft tissue usually over a bony prominence or related to a medical or other injury. The injury can present as intact skin or an open ulcer and may be painful. The injury occurs as a result of intense and/or prolonged pressure or pressure in combination with shear. The tolerance of soft tissue for pressure and shear may also be affected by microclimate, nutrition, perfusion, comorbidities and condition of the soft tissue.

For more information, visit www.npuap.org