Pressure injury prevention and management: an exploration of knowledge and practice

Abstract

Objective. The purpose of this study was to explore nursing team members’ knowledge and practices related to pressure injury prevention and management. Sample and Setting: Registered Nurses (n=18), Licensed Practice Nurses (n=66), and Personal Care Attendants (n=36) who work in urban and rural Long Term Care facilities. Methods. This was a descriptive-exploratory study. Two versions of a Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Questionnaire were used to assess knowledge about pressure injury prevention, management and related policies; one for RNs and LPNs with wound care education (LPNwcs), another for PCAs and LPNs without wound care education (LPNnowcs). Retrospective chart review was used to assess practices related to risk and skin assessments, and implementation of pressure injury prevention interventions. Results. Knowledge for all nursing team participants was lower than expected. Median scores and ranges were: 1) RNs: 74.5 (59.6 to 83.0) and 2) LPNwcs: 72.0 (53.2 to 80.9). Mean scores and ranges were: 1) LPNnowcs: 78.4 (62.5 to 91.7) and 2) PCAs 75.9 (54.2 to 91.7). Policy knowledge was poor. There was insufficient completion of the Braden Risk Assessments (38.5%), with the most done on admission (76.6%). Fewer than 25% of high risk residents had sufficient interventions and consults documented. Conclusion. Each nursing group has different learning needs. Recommendations include improving education, auditing with feedback, and tailoring education for individual needs. Organizational support is required.