Predictors of Pressure Injuries in Older Residents Living in Nursing Homes in Sri Lanka: A Prospective Multi-Site Cohort Study.

AIM

To determine the predictors of pressure injuries among residents living in Sri Lankan nursing homes.

DESIGN

A prospective multi-site longitudinal cohort study design.

METHODS

Semi-structured observations and chart audits were used to gather data on 17 predictors of pressure injury from a consecutive sample of 210 residents (aged ≥ 60 years old) from nine nursing homes in Sri Lanka. Data were collected at baseline and followed up every week until the study endpoint: a new pressure injury or reaching the maximum 12 weeks of data collection, from July to October 2023. Validated semi-structured data collection forms and chart audits were utilised. Binary logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of pressure injuries. Generalised linear mixed models were used to assess the association between predictors and the development of new pressure injuries.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of pressure injuries was 17.1% (36/210) during the 12 weeks. The number of medical devices and baseline pressure injuries predicted the development of new pressure injuries. Each additional medical device increased the likelihood of developing a pressure injury by 2.3-fold, and individuals with a baseline pressure injury were 2.1 times more likely to develop a new pressure injury.

CONCLUSION

Multiple medical devices and baseline pressure injuries are predictors of pressure injury in older residents living in nursing homes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION

This study provides evidence of pressure injury predictors among older residents living in nursing homes. Early identification of high-risk residents with an existing pressure injury and those with multiple medical devices is important for nurses and managers at nursing homes. Accurately assessing residents' risk of a pressure injury may result in implementing various preventive strategies that may ultimately help prevent future pressure injuries.

REPORTING METHOD

Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) for cohort studies guidelines.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution.