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Pressure Injuries: Common Sites

Bony prominences are the areas of bone that are close to the skin's surface. These areas are most susceptible to pressure injuries because they have the least amount of cushioning. Which pressure points are vulnerable for a particular patient depends on the position in which most of that patient’s time is spent. Also check for pressure injuries on the skin over implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers.

Pressure points to remember

Outline of person lying on back with bones visible. Pressure points: Back of head, shoulder, elbow, sacrum, and heel.

Outline of person sitting in wheelchair with bones visible. Pressure points: Shoulder blade, buttocks, ball of foot, heel.

Outline of person lying on side with bones visible. Pressure points: Ear, shoulder, hip area, knees, ankle.

Online Medical Reviewer: Eric Perez MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Maryann Foley RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2021
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