Which patient population is at the highest risk for pressure ulcers?

The elderly and immobilized patients are identified as the highest risk population for pressure ulcers due to several physiological and situational factors. As individuals age, their skin becomes thinner and less elastic, making it more susceptible to damage. Additionally, elderly patients often face reduced mobility, which can lead to prolonged pressure on certain areas of the body, especially over bony prominences such as the heels, sacrum, and elbows.

Immobilization further compounds this risk. When a patient is unable to reposition themselves, pressure can build up in specific areas of the skin, restricting blood flow and resulting in tissue ischemia. This can quickly progress to tissue necrosis if not addressed.

In contrast, the other populations mentioned have varying risk factors. Children and adolescents typically have more resilient skin and are generally more active than elderly individuals, which reduces their risk of developing pressure ulcers. Patients with chronic illnesses can develop pressure ulcers, but this group is broad and not solely defined by immobility. Similarly, physically active adults are less likely to experience pressure ulcers, as movement encourages blood circulation and helps to prevent the formation of ulcers.

Thus, the combination of age-related skin changes and the effects of immobility in the elderly population make them the highest risk group for developing