A pressure ulcer isn’t “just a skin problem.” It can signal that a resident’s risk assessment, turning schedule, hygiene support, nutrition, or monitoring wasn’t handled properly.
Act fast if you notice:
- New redness or darkened skin over a bony area (heels, hips, tailbone)
- Wounds that look worse week-to-week instead of improving
- Delays in wound care orders or dressing changes
- Conflicting explanations about when the injury first appeared
- Fever, drainage, or signs of infection
From a legal standpoint, speed matters because records get harder to reconstruct as time passes. From a medical standpoint, early evaluation can reduce complications.


