Improving Pressure Injury Care Outcomes With Structured Patient Education: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Patient Education
• Wound Care

Background:

• Pressure injuries (PIs) are a significant concern for patients with limited mobility.
• Effective patient education is crucial for managing PIs and improving outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a structured patient education program on PI knowledge, patient participation, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and healing rates.
• To compare outcomes between patients receiving the educational intervention and those receiving standard care.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental study involving 116 adult patients with stage 2 or 3 PIs.
• Intervention group received a 4-day intensive education program followed by 8 weeks of biweekly sessions.
• Control group received standard care. Outcome variables were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in PI knowledge and perceived participation compared to the control group.
• While HRQOL scores decreased in both groups, the intervention group experienced significant improvements.
• The intervention group demonstrated significantly greater progress toward PI healing.

Conclusions:

• Structured patient education is effective in enhancing PI knowledge and patient engagement in care.
• The educational intervention positively impacts HRQOL and accelerates wound healing.
• This program offers a valuable approach to improving outcomes for patients at risk of or with PIs.