Pressure ulcers at the end of life

Abstract

Skin compromise at the end of life (SCALE) is not a new concept. The development of SCALE at the end of life is often deemed unavoidable and a result of multiorgan failure resulting in tissue hypoperfusion, which leads to depletion of oxygen and nutrients for the skin. Pressure ulcers, formed due to pressure, shearing or continuous friction, are also common at the end of life. The goal of care for patients with pressure ulcers at the end of life is usually wound management and good quality of life, rather than wound healing. Nurses must assess all pressure ulcers or SCALE at the end of life holistically and consider treatment and management based on the patient's condition.