Pressure damage is a commonly encountered harm that can have significant impact on patients, carers and healthcare providers. Preventing the occurrence of pressure damage requires a multipronged approach of which patient education should form an essential part. What kind of education takes place, who it is delivered by and at what level of detail, is a question of clinical judgement and the responsibility of qualified, experienced healthcare professionals. Overall, the emphasis should always be on delivering clear, meaningful and useful messages for patients and carers.