Abstract
Literature review discloses that the operating room often shares responsibility for pressure ulcer development due to the high-risk factors in this patient population. Research investigating the etiology of pressure ulcer development in the operating room describes pressure as a causative factor. Thus, the time of the procedure, any unrelieved pressure, and the patient's tolerance for a pressure insult become critical components in ulcer development. Important factors in the prevention of pressure ulcers in the perioperative arena are the early identification of patients at risk for alterations in skin integrity and implementation of preventive measures.