Evaluation of Pressure Injuries in Intensive Care Units: A Point Prevalence Study in a City Hospital

To determine the prevalence of pressure injuries (PIs) in intensive care units (ICUs).

This descriptive point prevalence study was conducted in 43 adult ICUs of the General Hospital, Cardiovascular Hospital, Orthopedics and Neurology Hospital, and Oncology Hospital of the City Hospital in Turkey. The study population consisted of 705 patients who were hospitalized in the adult ICUs of the City Hospital on May 2, 2024; of those, 632 patients agreed to participate. Data were collected using a patient information form and the Braden Risk Assessment Scale.

Overall, 45.1% of the patients were at high risk for PI, 28.8% had a PI, and 12.9% had a PI originating from an external center. The prevalence of PI in this population was 12.8%. Pressure injuries occurred most frequently in the sacral region (38.8%) and the most frequent staging was stage 2 (34.5%). The Braden Risk Assessment Scale was used in 100% of patients.

Pressure injuries represent system-level issues. Sustainable prevention requires strengthened education, improved nurse-to-patient ratios, reduced workload, and enhanced holistic care practices alongside ongoing training efforts within intensive care settings.