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The relationship between stress and pressure sore formation
1Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA.
Ostomy/Wound Management
|June 17, 1998
Summary
This study found higher serum cortisol levels in older adults who developed pressure sores after nursing home relocation. Elevated cortisol may be linked to relocation stress, but a direct cause isn't proven.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Pressure sores are a common complication for elderly individuals in nursing homes.
- Relocation to a nursing home is a significant stressor for older adults.
- Serum cortisol levels can indicate physiological stress responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between serum cortisol and pressure sore development in recent nursing home admissions aged 65+.
- To explore the role of stress, indicated by cortisol, in pressure sore etiology.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 26 elderly subjects at risk for pressure sores, free of existing sores or confounding conditions.
- Assayed morning and evening serum cortisol levels during the first two weeks post-admission.
- Monitored skin condition and pressure sore risk status twice weekly for five weeks.
Main Results:
- Subjects who developed pressure sores exhibited significantly higher serum cortisol levels (p < 0.02).
- The difference in cortisol levels was most pronounced during the second week post-admission (p < 0.002).
Conclusions:
- Elevated serum cortisol may be associated with pressure sore formation in this population.
- Relocation stress could contribute to higher cortisol levels and subsequent pressure sore development.
- A definitive causal link between cortisol and pressure sore development requires further investigation.