Healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes, practices, and influencing factors in the prevention of medical device-related pressure injuries: A scoping review.

OBJECTIVES

Medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs) represent a significant iatrogenic complication in healthcare settings. Healthcare workers' competency in device management is crucial for MDRPI prevention, yet evidence regarding their preventive knowledge, attitudes, and practices remains fragmented. This study aims to synthesize evidence on assessment methods, current status, and influencing factors of healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices in MDRPI prevention.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O'Malley framework. We systematically searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL databases from inception to December 18, 2024. Studies were considered if they examined healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes, practices, or influencing factors regarding MDRPI prevention. Two independent researchers performed study selection and data extraction, with narrative synthesis of findings.

RESULTS

Analysis of 20 studies across nine countries revealed substantial methodological heterogeneity in assessment approaches. While healthcare workers maintained positive attitudes toward prevention, knowledge assessment identified significant deficits, particularly in MDRPI concepts, staging classification, and preventive measures. Practice implementation varies considerably, with notable gaps in device repositioning, protective dressing application, and prevention strategy documentation. Prevention competencies were significantly influenced by individual factors (e.g., age, education, clinical experience) and institutional characteristics (e.g., hospital grade, department type).

CONCLUSIONS

This review identified substantial heterogeneity in assessment methods for MDRPI prevention competencies. While healthcare workers demonstrated positive attitudes, significant knowledge deficits persisted, with practice implementation showing considerable variations. Prevention initiatives should focus on developing standardized assessment tools and implementing targeted educational interventions, while considering both individual and institutional factors that influence prevention competencies.