The large numbers of patients affected by, and high cost associated with, pressure ulcers means that they have become a key quality issue for the NHS. This has lead to a zero tolerance approach to avoidable pressure ulcers, which has major implications for practitioners. It is recommended that staff and carers involved in looking after individuals at risk of, or with an existing pressure ulcer, should use established guidance on the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers to ensure that best practice is provided. In addition, they should follow local protocols.