What is a Pressure Sore/Ulcer?

A pressure sore, also known as a pressure ulcer, is indeed characterized as an inflamed lesion that arises primarily due to prolonged pressure or friction on the skin. These sores typically develop over bony areas of the body where blood flow is restricted, often affecting individuals with limited mobility.

The process begins when pressure on the skin causes blood flow to diminish, resulting in tissue damage. If not relieved, these ulcers can progress into more severe stages, leading to deeper tissue damage and potential complications such as infections. Therefore, understanding this definition is crucial for those involved in care services, as it highlights the importance of regular repositioning and skin assessments to prevent their occurrence.

The other options describe different health conditions that are not related to pressure ulcers. An allergic reaction pertains to a skin condition that arises from the immune response to specific allergens. An infection that occurs in a healthcare facility refers to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), and a genetic skin disorder involves inherited conditions affecting the skin's structure or function.