The Hidden Human & Financial Toll of Pressure Ulcers
Pressure ulcers remain one of the most costly chronic wounds—financially and emotionally. In the US, hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) cost over $26.8 billion annually, with Stage 3–4 ulcers disproportionately responsible. In England, the NHS spends approximately £3.8 million per day treating these injuries. Each non-healing ulcer can incur up to £374 per day in treatment costs.
Key Highlights:
- Health System Strain: Repairing full-thickness ulcers delays rehabilitation by preventing patients from participating in essential therapy. It also burdens staff and hospital budgets.
- Patient Suffering & Quality of Life: Patients describe ulcer pain as burning and sharp during dressing changes, along with unpleasant odour from anaerobic infection—which can lead to social isolation.
- Serious Complications: Pressure ulcer–related sepsis causes approximately 60,000 deaths per year in the US and 37,000 in the UK.
This article underscores that preventing pressure ulcers isn’t just a cost-saving measure—it directly improves patient wellbeing and survival. Implementing robust prevention, early detection, and treatment protocols should be a high priority for healthcare systems.
Read the full article on the Wounds International website.
Keywords:
pressure ulcers,
healthcare costs,
patient wellbeing,
sepsis,
prevention