Pressure ulcer development has often been measured as an indicator of care. This still stands today, with nurses and specialists being asked for information on pressure ulcer development by category. However, should the reason for categorising pressure ulcers be to ensure the most appropriate treatment for the patient rather than data collection? In the 1940s, pressure ulcers were categorised into three stages and treatment was recommended according to the category. This article looks at the way that information gained from the categorising of pressure ulcers has changed since the 1940s, and questions whether it is time to review the way we categorise them today.
