Pressure ulcers in people with spinal cord injury in developing nations

Abstract

Study design: Literature review.

Objectives: To explore the prevalence or incidence, risk factors, and costs of pressure ulcers among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), specifically in the context of the developing world. To highlight important targets for intervention and research for pressure ulcer management the world over.

Setting: World Bank 'low-income' and 'middle-income' countries with a gross national income per capita <$12 746.

Methods: PubMed search.

Results: SCI-associated pressure ulcers are very prevalent in developing nations; however, reported prevalence and incidence numbers are highly variable. Risk factors for pressure ulcers are similar in developed and developing countries however many of the risk factors are more prevalent in developing nations.

Conclusion: SCI-associated pressure ulcers are common but can be prevented in the developing world. Key targets for interventions include acute care, nurse-to-patient ratios, support surfaces and education.