A comparative analysis of pressure sore treatment modalities in community settings.

The management of pressure sores in community settings, poses a clinical problem which challenges the patient’s toler­ ance and the clinician’s diligence and ingenuity. Pressure sores can be painful, lead to infection and are associated with con­ siderable morbidity and increased mortality (Patterson & Bennett, 1995:919; Bale, Banks, Hagelstein & Harding, 1998:65). Treatment costs of these wounds are high in terms of resources (Colin 1995:65; Wood, Griffiths & Stoner, 1997:256). However, since there are untold cost in terms of pain and suffering to the patient, it is impossible to calculate the true cost of pressure sores (Dealey, 1994:87).