The following information was copied verbatim from the AHCPR Guidelines, which is consistent with the recommendations of the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) Consensus Development Conference:
Stage 1
Nonblanchable erythema of intact skin, the heralding lesion of skin ulceration. In individuals with darker skin, discoloration of the skin, warmth, edema, induration, or hardness may also be indicators.
A Stage I pressure ulcer is an observable pressure related alteration of intact skin whose indicators as compared to the adjacent or opposite area on the body may include changes in one or more of the following:
skin temperature (warmth or coolness), tissue consistency (firm or boggy feel) and/or sensation (pain, itching).
The ulcer appears as a defined area of persistent redness in lightly pigmented skin, whereas in darker skin tones, the ulcer may appear with persistent red, blue, or purple hues.
Stage 2
Partial thickness skin loss involving epidermis, dermis, or both. The ulcer is superficial and presents clinically as an abrasion, blister, or shallow crater.
Stage 3
Full thickness skin loss involving damage to or necrosis of subcutaneous tissue that may extend down to, but not through, underlying fascia. The ulcer presents clinically as a deep crater with or without undermining of adjacent tissue.
Stage 4
Full thickness skin loss with extensive destruction, tissue necrosis, or damage to muscle, bone, or supporting structures (e.g., tendon, joint capsule). Undermining and sinus tracts also may be associated with Stage 4 pressure ulcers.
If nursing home abuse is suspected, immediate action must be taken. Call 911 or The Peck Law Group toll free at 1.866.999.9085, if a resident appears to be in immediate danger, otherwise, report the situation to an administrator. All nursing homes are required to have formal complaint procedure and a staff person who is designated to review grievances. Submit specific information about your complaints and attempts to resolve them. If the situation is not resolved, then the problem should be reported state agency charged with overseeing nursing homes. It may be necessary to remove a resident from a deficient nursing home if the problem is not corrected. In many cases of suspected nursing home abuse and neglect, it can be helpful to retain an experienced Peck Law Group elder abuse lawyer to take action on a loved one's behalf.
