Avoiding pressure injuries You are here:HomePatients & VisitorsKeeping you safe in hospitalAvoiding pressure injuries A pressure injury, also known as a bedsore or ulcer, can form when you sit or lie in the same position for a long time. The risk of a pressure injury increases if you have to stay in bed, have poor circulation or you're not eating well. A pressure injury can look like a reddened or blistered area on the skin. Bony parts of the body like the heels, tailbone, toes and back of your head are at most risk of a pressure injury. To help prevent a pressure injury you can: keep moving, as much as it's safe to do so change your sitting or lying position as often as you can look after your skin and tell a staff member if you think it looks or feels different eat a balanced, healthy diet. We prepare a pressure injury management plan for every patient who will be staying overnight in hospital. Ask your nurse to explain the plan to you.