MANAGING BACTERIAL-COLONIZATION AND INFECTION

High levels of contamination are associated with delayed healing of pr essure 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 presen t, and treating the patient with a contaminated or infected pressure u lcer. Systemic support for healing is discussed with a focus on oxygen ation and nutrition. A comprehensive plan for the concomitant treatmen t of all factors contributing to pressure ulcer infection is recommend ed.