Wound Care Certification Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

For a pressure injury to develop, the critical risk factor that must be present is mobility or activity limitations. Pressure injuries occur when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, particularly in individuals who are unable to change positions frequently. The tissues under the skin, particularly over bony areas, become subjected to sustained pressure, which can lead to tissue ischemia and ultimately tissue damage.

While other factors like age, dehydration, and obesity can contribute to the risk of developing pressure injuries, they are not absolute prerequisites. Mobility limitations directly create the condition for pressure injuries to arise because individuals who cannot shift their weight or reposition themselves are more prone to sustained pressure on specific areas of the body. This makes it essential for caregivers and healthcare professionals to assess and manage mobility limits to prevent the occurrence of pressure injuries.