Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Management
Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Care training helps staff protect skin integrity and improve outcomes for people at risk of pressure damage. Pressure ulcers, also known as pressure sores or bedsores, can have a serious impact on health, comfort, mobility, and quality of life. However, with the right training, early risk assessment, and effective care planning, many pressure ulcers are preventable.
This course provides healthcare and support staff with the knowledge and practical understanding needed to prevent, identify, and manage pressure ulcers safely and effectively. Learners gain a clear understanding of how pressure ulcers develop, who is most at risk, and why early intervention is critical.
The training explains the importance of skin integrity and explores common risk factors such as reduced mobility, poor nutrition, dehydration, and continence issues. Learners also develop confidence in recognising early warning signs of pressure damage before skin breakdown occurs. In addition, the course introduces recognised pressure risk assessment tools, repositioning strategies, and pressure mapping principles.
The course covers best practice in pressure ulcer prevention and management. This includes the safe use of pressure-relieving equipment, such as specialist mattresses, cushions, and positioning aids. Learners also explore the importance of accurate record keeping and documentation, ensuring concerns are identified, escalated, and reviewed appropriately.
Importantly, the training clarifies the difference between pressure ulcers and other skin conditions, including incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). This helps staff respond correctly and avoid misclassification, which can delay treatment and increase harm.
This Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Care course is suitable for care workers, nurses, and support staff working in residential care, nursing homes, hospitals, and community settings. It supports safe care delivery and aligns with Care Quality Commission (CQC) expectations around safety, effectiveness, and person-centred care. The training also supports good clinical governance and continuous improvement in care quality.
What You Will Learn
- Understand the structure and function of the skin and how it relates to pressure ulcer development
- Define pressure ulcers and learn how and why they form (pressure, shear, friction, and moisture)
- Differentiate between pressure sores and incontinence-associated dermatitis
- Identify and classify the stages (grades) of pressure ulcers using the EPUAP (European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel) system
- Use and interpret the Waterlow Risk Assessment Tool to assess pressure ulcer risk
- Learn how to prevent pressure ulcers through repositioning, skin care, nutrition, and use of pressure-relieving equipment
- Understand the correct use of mattresses, cushions, dressings, and other pressure-relieving aids
- Know when and how to escalate concerns or refer to specialist services
- Improve documentation and record-keeping in line with professional standards and regulatory expectations
- Understand your role and responsibilities in promoting good skin care and pressure ulcer prevention
Certification
All learners will receive a certificate of achievement upon successful completion of the course.
Related Courses
If you’re looking to expand your knowledge further, check out our Personal Care, Person Centred Planning, Moving & Positioning, and other Care Sector courses.
Course Location & Service Areas
We deliver in-house training at your workplace or chosen venue, tailored to your needs and schedule. This flexible approach removes the need to send staff off-site for essential learning.
Our experienced trainers deliver courses across Manchester and Greater Manchester, supporting organisations throughout the North West.
We also provide on-site training throughout England, covering major cities, towns, and regions nationwide, including North England, South England, London, and Surrey.
For added flexibility, this course is also available remotely via Zoom or Microsoft Teams, making it ideal for teams based in multiple locations or working remotely.
Wherever and however the training is delivered, all sessions are led by experienced Prima Cura Training instructors and meet the same high standards.
