Pressure ulcers. Managing bacterial colonization and infection.

High levels of contamination are associated with delayed healing of pressure ulcers, and problems occur when surface contaminants invade the tissues and produce infection. This article addresses differentiating contamination from infection, identifying infection when it is present, and treating the patient with a contaminated or infected pressure ulcer. Systemic support for healing is discussed with a focus on oxygenation and nutrition. A comprehensive plan for the concomitant treatment of all factors contributing to pressure ulcer infection is recommended.