Pressure Injuries: Common Sites

Bony prominences are the areas of bone that are close to the skin's surface. These areas are most susceptible to pressure injuries because they have the least amount of cushioning. They are also more vulnerable to friction and shear injuries. Which pressure points are vulnerable for a particular patient depends on the position in which most of that patient’s time is spent. Also check for pressure injuries on the skin over implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers.

Overall, the sacrum is the most common site for pressure injuries. Pressure injuries are also commonly seen on the:

Heels
Ischial tuberosity
Greater trochanter
Back of the head
Shoulders
Ears
Elbows
Inner knees
Malleoli (particularly the lateral malleolus)

Pressure points to remember

Outline of person lying on back with bones visible. Pressure points: Back of head, shoulder, elbow, sacrum, and heel.

Outline of person sitting in wheelchair with bones visible. Pressure points: Shoulder blade, buttocks, ball of foot, heel.

Outline of person lying on side with bones visible. Pressure points: Ear, shoulder, hip area, knees, ankle.