Decubitus

/dɪˈkjuːbɪtəs/ noun

Definition

A pressure sore or ulcer that develops on the skin from prolonged contact with a surface, especially bedsores.

Etymology

From Latin decumbere, meaning 'to lie down.' The term was coined in medical Latin to describe the condition caused by lying in one position too long.

Kelly Says

Decubitus ulcers killed countless bedridden people throughout history—hospitals now have entire protocols for 'pressure relief' to prevent what was once almost inevitable for the immobilized.

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