The first two articles in this series outlined the new classifications of pressure ulcers and who are the at-risk populations susceptible to this serious medical condition. Although this is important information, the critical element in preventing and treating pressure ulcers rests with the patient first and foremost, if possible, but also with all the people who impact the patient's care either directly or indirectly: family member, caregiver, physician, nurse, therapist, dietician. If these individuals, however, are to provide truly effective care, they must not carry out their duties in isolation, nor be unaware of the responsibilities of others, nor fail to communicate their own roles. In other words, it takes a team approach for real pressure ulcer prevention and treatment.