Who is at risk of a pressure sore? A practical review of risk assessment systems.

1. The validity and reliability of many commonly used risk assessment scores in inconclusive. 2. Particular risk assessment scores appear to be more suitable for specific clinical settings, therefore selection and use of individual scoring systems requires careful consideration. 3. Use of risk assessment scores can assist selection of patient support surfaces, but such tools should be an adjunct to clinical decision-making rather than a replacement. 4. Further research is required to investigate the relationship between predictions of risk status and the selection of appropriate patient support surfaces.