The classification for pressure ulcers of Yarkony, Kirk, et
al is intended to provide a complete description of pressure ulcers and their
healing. The authors are from Chicago, Illinois.
|
Appearance of
Pressure Site
|
Additional Finding
|
Grade
|
|
red area (erythema) without ulceration
|
|
1
|
|
|
present > 30 minutes but < 24 hours
|
1A
|
|
|
present >= 24 hours
|
1B
|
|
epidermis and/or dermis ulcerated with no subcutaneous fat
observed
|
|
2
|
|
subcutaneous fat but no muscle observed
|
|
3
|
|
muscle and/or fascia observed; no bone observed
|
|
4
|
|
bone observed, but no involvement of joint space
|
|
5
|
|
involvement of joint space
|
|
6
|
Grade 1 lesions are areas where preventive care may prevent
further deterioration to overt ulceration.
If eschar is present, then debridement may be necessary to
determine the extent of the ulceration.
"Pressure ulcer healed" indicates that a pressure
ulcer had been present but is now healed. A healed ulcer is at potential risk
for recurrence.