Pressure Ulcer Prevention

Term from Geriatric Care industry explained for recruiters

Pressure Ulcer Prevention refers to the methods and practices used to stop patients from developing bed sores or pressure injuries, which are common problems in elderly care settings. These are injuries that happen when someone stays in one position for too long, usually while confined to a bed or wheelchair. Healthcare workers use special techniques, equipment, and regular monitoring to prevent these injuries. This is a critical skill in nursing homes, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. You might also see this referred to as "bedsore prevention" or "pressure injury prevention" in job descriptions and resumes.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented comprehensive Pressure Ulcer Prevention program reducing incidents by 40% in nursing unit

Trained staff of 15 in Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Pressure Sore Prevention techniques

Developed and maintained Pressure Ulcer Prevention protocols for 60-bed facility

Led daily Pressure Injury Prevention assessments and documentation for high-risk patients

Typical job title: "Wound Care Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Wound Care Nurse Geriatric Care Nurse Pressure Ulcer Specialist Wound Prevention Specialist Clinical Nurse Specialist Long-term Care Nurse Skin Care Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a facility-wide pressure ulcer prevention program?

Expected Answer: Should discuss staff training, risk assessment tools, documentation systems, equipment needs, and measuring outcomes. Should mention involving multiple departments and creating clear protocols.

Q: How do you handle resistant staff members who aren't following prevention protocols?

Expected Answer: Should discuss leadership approaches, education methods, demonstrating importance through data, and creating buy-in through staff involvement in protocol development.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What risk assessment tools do you use for pressure ulcer prevention?

Expected Answer: Should mention common tools like Braden Scale, describe how to use them, and explain how assessment results guide care planning.

Q: How do you document pressure ulcer prevention measures?

Expected Answer: Should explain regular documentation practices, what to include, frequency of assessments, and importance of communication between shifts.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in preventing pressure ulcers?

Expected Answer: Should mention regular repositioning, skin assessment, proper nutrition, moisture management, and use of pressure-relieving devices.

Q: What are the common pressure points to monitor?

Expected Answer: Should identify major pressure points like heels, sacrum, elbows, and explain basic monitoring and prevention techniques.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic skin assessment
  • Patient positioning techniques
  • Documentation of prevention measures
  • Use of pressure-relieving equipment

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Risk assessment using standardized tools
  • Development of care plans
  • Staff education and training
  • Quality improvement participation

Senior (5+ years)

  • Program development and implementation
  • Policy creation and revision
  • Quality metrics analysis
  • Team leadership and mentoring

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic risk assessment tools
  • Unable to demonstrate understanding of repositioning schedules
  • Lack of documentation experience
  • No familiarity with pressure-relieving devices and equipment

Related Terms