Objective: To understand the effects of shear on pressure ulcers To standardize measurements of shear and how support surfaces manage shear

Methods International meetings held twice a year. Research conducted in independent labs in Europe, Japan, USA and Israel

Two research groups formed Group one: research investigating the physiological effects of shear on deep tissue . Group two; Design way shear information will be disseminated. Implement educational programs at professional as information becomes available

Results: Numerous test methods have been used to examine the effects of tissue on skin. Beginning to get an understanding of shear force impact on tissue. Various test methods measuring how support surfaces manage shear have been identified. A list of what is know about shear and where research needs to focus has been developed and will be disseminated.

Discussion: Although it is widely accepted that shear is a major contributing force to the development of pressure ulcers, research is now providing scientific evidence of how this occurs.

Conclusion: The direction of the shear force differs between the upper-body and lower-body regions when the upper-body elevated.. Shear force also occurring when the upper body is “lowered”.Shear is an major contributor to the cause of pressure ulcers. It is essential to get a better understanding of the how shear contributes to tissue damage to prevent/treat pressure ulcers.