Pressure ulcer point prevalence, classification, locations, and preventive measures: Insights from a Norwegian nursing home survey

ObjectiveTo report data from a point pressure ulcer (PU) prevalence survey on prevalence, PU categories, locations and preventive interventions at one Norwegian nursing home.MethodsA cross-sectional research design was used. One nursing home in Norway participated in the prevalence survey in 2020. The data were collected on one selected day. A total of 74 out of 88 residents (84.1%) participated. Descriptive statistical analyses were run.ResultsThe overall prevalence of PUs was 27% amongst all participants in the nursing home, who together had a total of 57 PUs categorised as category I-III. One major finding was that the most common site of the PUs was on the residents' toes. Interestingly, the prevalence of PUs in the residents' sacrum was considerably low. The most frequently used PU preventive interventions were foam chair cushions, nutritional supplements and pressure-reducing heel protection.ConclusionThis study identified a high prevalence of PUs, predominantly on residents' toes. Although preventive strategies were implemented, their application appeared limited. Implementing obligatory care packages and annual nationwide PU surveys might be worth considering in municipalities.