Pressure ulcer incidence in acute care settings: a multicentre prospective study

Abstract

Objective: Pressure ulcers (PUs) are one of the most commonly occurring complications in hospitalised patients. Knowing the size of the problem and its risk factors will help in preventing it. The aim of this study is to measure the incidence of PUs in acute care settings in Jordan and to explore associated risk factors.

Method: A prospective incidence study for hospitalised patients in Jordan according to the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel methodology. All patients admitted into four Jordanian hospitals over a period of six months were included.

Results: The cumulative incidence rate was 0.48%. Using multivariate analysis, a low albumin level, elevated white blood cells, incontinence and having more chronic illnesses were significantly associated with acquiring PUs.

Conclusion: Incidence of PUs in Jordan is lower when compared with other parts of the world; this could be related to the relatively younger Jordanian population compared with other populations.

Declaration of interest: The author has no conflicts of interest to declare.

Keywords: acute care; hard-to-heal wounds; incidence; pressure ulcer; prospective; ulcer; wound; wound care; wounds.