What is a defining characteristic of a pressure ulcer/injury compared to other types of wounds?

A defining characteristic of a pressure ulcer or injury is that pressure is always the primary cause of the lesion. Pressure ulcers, also known as pressure injuries, develop when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, typically over bony areas, which restricts blood flow to the tissues. This ischemia can lead to skin breakdown, making pressure the critical factor for their development.

In contrast to other types of wounds, which may arise from trauma, surgical interventions, or other medical conditions, pressure ulcers specifically stem from sustained pressure on the skin. This understanding is central to effective prevention and treatment strategies, as alleviating pressure is a key intervention in managing these injuries.

The other options do not capture the essence of what specifically differentiates pressure ulcers from other wound types. For instance, skin may present as intact in the early stages of a pressure ulcer (as in Stage 1 wounds), bedbound patients can certainly be at risk; however, individuals who are mobile can also develop pressure ulcers. Size alone also does not distinguish pressure ulcers, as wounds of various types can vary significantly in size and still be due to different etiologies.