Abstract
AimTo determine the frequency of patient repositioning across three consecutive nursing shifts (day, evening and night) and to identify predictors of repositioning frequency.BackgroundPatient repositioning is a frequently implemented pressure injury prevention strategy. Yet, little is known about how often it should be implemented, or the frequency of movement among hospitalized patients with reduced mobility.DesignAn observational prospective study.MethodsChart audits were used to gather clinical and demographic data. Semi‐structured observations were conducted every 30 minutes for a continuous 24‐hour period. Observational data included the patient's body position, the frequency of repositioning, assistance require to reposition and the use of support surfaces.ResultsPatients were repositioned frequently during the day and evening and least at night time. Elevation of the head of the bed (1–45°) was the most frequently adopted position. The independent predictors of repositioning frequency were age and gender, with older patients and males repositioned less frequently.
Highlights
Pressure injuries (PI) or pressure ulcers are a significant patient safety and quality healthcare issue (Moore et al 2011); many of which are avoidable (Black et al 2011)
A range of prevention strategies is recommended in clinical practice guidelines (CPG) for the pressure injury prevention (PIP), with repositioning a core component (NPUAP/EPUAP/PPPIA 2014)
PI are an adverse event caused by the mechanical factors of pressure, shearing and/or friction, resulting in localized damage to either the skin and/or underlying tissue (Coleman et al 2014, NPUAP/EPUAP/PPPIA 2014)
Summary
Pressure injuries (PI) or pressure ulcers are a significant patient safety and quality healthcare issue (Moore et al 2011); many of which are avoidable (Black et al 2011). A range of prevention strategies is recommended in clinical practice guidelines (CPG) for the pressure injury prevention (PIP), with repositioning a core component (NPUAP/EPUAP/PPPIA 2014). Little is known about the body positions of hospital patients (Chaboyer et al 2013). Because of this gap in understanding, a study was undertaken to describe the repositioning of medical patients over a continuous 24-hour period. Patient repositioning is a frequently implemented pressure injury prevention strategy. The prevention and management of PI is a priority healthcare area (Institute of Medicine 2012, National Health Service Commissioning Board 2013, Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care 2012)
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