The risk of developing pressure ulcers among seniors hospitalized in an internal medicine ward

Abstract

Introduction. Pressure ulcers are a significant clinical problem and usually affect people who are immobilized for a long time. The group at greatest risk are the elderly, dependent, disabled, terminally and chronically ill. Pressure ulcers are a source of pain, reduce the quality of life of patients and extend the time of hospital stay and recovery.

Aim. The aim of the study is to analyze selected determinants of the development of pressure ulcers among seniors hospitalized in an internal medicine ward.

Materials and methods. The study was conducted among 100 seniors hospitalized in the internal medicine ward. The following research methods were used: diagnostic survey, estimation method, analysis and criticism of literature. The techniques used in the study were: interview, observation, analysis of the patient’s health records, survey, estimation scale technique. The work used the author’s metrics, the Norton, Barthel, Braden scale and the patient’s health records.

Results. Studies have shown a varied risk of developing pressure ulcers among seniors hospitalized in an internal medicine ward due to sociodemographic variables, self-care deficits and care category.

Conclusions. The risk of developing pressure ulcers among seniors hospitalized in an internal medicine ward varies significantly depending on selected sociodemographic variables, such as age, place of residence, type of residence, and BMI. Seniors from older age groups living alone in cities were at higher risk of developing pressure ulcers. The risk of developing pressure ulcers among seniors hospitalized in an internal medicine ward varies significantly depending on self-care deficits. Individuals at higher risk of developing pressure ulcers were significantly more likely to demonstrate self-care deficits, while those at low risk of developing pressure ulcers demonstrated greater independence in daily functioning. The risk of developing pressure ulcers significantly correlates with the care category dedicated to seniors hospitalized in an internal medicine ward. Individuals at high risk of developing pressure ulcers were more likely to be classified as dependent care, which includes individuals requiring full or partial assistance with daily self-care activities. Individuals at lower risk of developing pressure ulcers were more likely to be classified as independent self-care.