Pressure Ulcers—A Longstanding Problem: A 7-Year Neurorehabilitation Unit Experience of Management, Care, and Clinical Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Neurological disease patients present an increased risk of developing pressure ulcers. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence and prevalence of pressure ulcers and their impact on length of stay and functional recovery. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a neurorehabilitation unit over a seven-year period. Data collected include demographic data, length of stay, functional evaluation, risk of pressure ulcers development, nutritional status, and skin. Pressure ulcers were classified according to the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel System. Results: Data from 816 patients were analyzed. On admission, the authors found 236 pressure ulcers in 131 patients (about 16%), divided into stage I (25%), stage II (50%), and stage III–IV (25%). The most common sites were the heel (36%) and sacrum (29%). Among the risk factors for the development of pressure ulcers, malnutrition played a significant role, with approximately 76% of patients with pressure ulcers having mild to moderate malnutrition. Conclusion: The presence of pressure ulcers seems to have a negative impact on the functional recovery of patients, as shown by the outcome scales and the average length of stay: 51 days versus 36 days (p < 0.01).

Keywords

• health services research
• inpatient rehabilitation
• multidisciplinary/interdisciplinary rehabilitation
• neurologic disorders
• quality improvement and patient safety
• wound management