Pressure ulcer detector under development

The non-invasive test, which was developed by researchers at Carnegie-Mellon, uses a hand-held probe on parts of the body that are at risk for developing pressure ulcers, notes the company's website. The device then is able to measure tissue properties and evaluate the skin for any signs that a pressure ulcer is beginning to develop.

And unlike the typical blanch test, which relies on visualizing skin discoloration after pressure is applied, the new testing method is not affected by a patient's skin color or ambient lighting.

The company is planning to begin clinical trials in long-term care facilities.