Preventing Pressure Ulcers in the Operating Room: A National Survey of Operating Room Nurses' Knowledge and Attitudes

To explore operating room nurses' self-estimated knowledge and attitudes regarding the prevention of intraoperative pressure ulcers.

Pressure ulcers are a significant patient safety concern in surgical settings. Despite being largely preventable, intraoperative pressure ulcers continue to occur due to prolonged immobility, positioning and device-related pressure. Nurses play a critical role in pressure ulcer prevention, yet knowledge gaps and unclear responsibilities may hinder effective practice.

A cross-sectional study using a quantitative online survey conducted in accordance with STROBE guidelines.

An online self-reporting survey was distributed to 1904 eligible operating room nurses across Sweden. A total of 284 operating room nurses responded (response rate 15%). The survey included two validated instruments: the Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Assessment Tool-Operating Room (PUKAT 2.0 OR) and the Attitudes toward Pressure Ulcer Prevention-Operating Room (APuP-OR). Descriptive and non-parametric statistics were used to analyse the data.

Participants displayed solid knowledge of pressure ulcer aetiology, but their understanding of preventive strategies, particularly those related to intraoperative positioning, was markedly weaker. Attitudes towards prevention were consistently positive, and participants generally expressed confidence in their ability to prevent pressure ulcers. Nonetheless, a substantial proportion indicated a continued need for further education in preventive measures.

Despite generally positive attitudes, operating room nurses' knowledge remains insufficient, especially regarding intraoperative positioning. Strengthening pressure ulcer prevention in surgical teams therefore requires structured educational initiatives and clearer role clarification of responsibilities within the surgical team. It is essential to enhance pressure ulcer prevention and improve patient safety.

Operating room nurses' positive attitudes towards pressure ulcer prevention provide a strong foundation for practice improvement. Targeted evidence-based education, competency assessments and enhanced interprofessional collaboration may strengthen preventive practices, reduce intraoperative pressure ulcers and improve patient safety during surgery.

There was no patient or public contribution.