Risk factors for device-related pressure injuries in general ward inpatients of a tertiary general hospital: A case-control study

Abstract

Aims: To identify the characteristics of device-related pressure injuries (DRPI) in general ward inpatients, and to confirm the DRPI risk factors by examining differences between a DRPI and non-DRPI group.

Methods: This study is a retrospective case-control study. High-risk adult patients for pressure injuries (rated at 16 points or less on the Braden scale) who were admitted to a general ward of a tertiary general hospital in South Korea from January 1 to September 30, 2021 were enrolled in this study. Among them, participants were selected by matching the patients with DRPI (n = 50) to the non-DRPI patient group (n = 100) in a ratio of 1:2.

Results: As for risk factors, longer hospitalization periods and the presence of oedema increased DRPI risk. In blood tests, higher glucose levels increased the risk by 1.03 times, and lower albumin levels increased the risk by 0.08 times. Furthermore, the risk of developing DRPI was 7.89 times higher when sedatives were administered.

Conclusions: Based on the DRPI risk factors identified in this study, patients who have oedema, who have long hospital stays, use sedatives and devices, have a low albumin level, and whose blood glucose is not well controlled should be recognized as having a high risk of developing DRPI. In order to prevent the development of DRPI, it is necessary to recognize risk factors at an early stage, increase actively preventive interventions. The results of this study contribute to recognizing the risk of DRPI in patients and evaluating risk factors for DRPI prevention.

Keywords: Equipment and supplies; Inpatient; Pressure ulcer; Risk factors.