Prevalence of Pressure Injury in Highly Complex Patients: Evidence from Scientific Literature

Abstract

Pressure injuries (PUs) are considered one of the main health care-related complications, especially in highly complex patients, due to their high incidence, clinical
complications, and impact on quality of life. This study aims to analyze, through a narrative literature review, the prevalence, risk factors, prevention strategies, and repercussions of PUs in hospitalized patients. The search was conducted on Google Scholar between April and May 2024, using specific descriptors, and resulted in the selection of 27 articles published between 2019 and 2024 that met the inclusion criteria. The findings showed that elderly, critically ill, bedridden patients, those using invasive devices, or those with chronic diseases are more vulnerable to developing PIs. The main risk factors include immobility, reduced tissue perfusion, prolonged sedation, malnutrition, and length of stay in intensive care units. Conversely, strategies such as the use of predictive scales (such as the Braden Scale), position changes, skin care, the use of pressure-redistributing surfaces, and ongoing nursing staff training have proven effective in reducing the incidence of
the problem. It is concluded that prevention is the most effective and viable measure given the serious repercussions of PUs and, in this context, the role of nursing, combined with multidisciplinary work and the implementation of evidence-based protocols, is essential to ensure quality and safety in the care provided.