The risk of pressure sores: a conceptual scheme

? Based on a review of the literature related to the prediction and prevention of pressure sores, a conceptual scheme on pressure sores is introduced. ? The article highlights the four elements of the scheme: pressure, shearing force, tissue tolerance for pressure and tissue tolerance for oxygen. Factors influencing pressure and shearing forces, the pressure distribution capacity of tissue, the oxygen need of tissue and oxygen supply to tissue are discussed.