Barbara M. Bates-Jensen

Barbara M. Bates-Jensen is a Professor and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Nursing. Her research focuses on wound care, particularly addressing disparities in detection and treatment of pressure injuries (bedsores) and chronic ulcers among vulnerable populations such as nursing home residents, elderly patients, and veterans with spinal cord injuries. She co-invented a medical device to detect subepidermal tissue damage and developed the internationally used Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT). Her work emphasizes translating research into clinical practice through implementation science.

Education includes a BSN from the University of Nebraska (1981), an MN from UCLA (1992), and a PhD in Nursing from UCLA (1998). Professional roles include leadership in the Association for Advancement of Wound Care (AAWC), serving as its President since 2022.

Research interests span gerontology nursing, chronic wound management, palliative care, and global healthcare education. Her studies investigate disparities in wound care access, innovative diagnostic tools, and clinical trial methodologies. Awards include the 2021 Kosiak Award for contributions to pressure injury prevention.