Hospital acquired pressure injuries prevalence and preventive measures in Omani critical care units: A multicenter cross-sectional study

Background: Pressure Injuries are a prevalent and concerning issue in critical care settings, impacting patient well-being and healthcare systems.

Purpose: Measure the point prevalence of acquired pressure injuries in Omani critical care units and assess the adequacy of preventive measures.

Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted in four major Omani hospitals, encompassing various geographical regions and health sectors. A convenient sample of 156 adult patients in critical care units was examined using the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel methodology. Data on prevalence, risk assessment, and prevention measures were collected and analyzed.

Results: The study revealed a prevalence rate of 21.8 % for hospital-acquired pressure injuries (including stage I) and 19.2 % (excluding stage I) in Omani critical care units. The sacrum was the most affected area, with stage II being predominant. Alarmingly, some at-risk patients did not receive appropriate preventive equipment, while low-risk patients received unnecessary measures. Approximately 73.3 % of at-risk patients received adequate prevention.

Conclusion: This pioneering study in Oman addresses the prevalence of Pressure Injuries, revealing rates that are higher than international norms. Additionally, the research underscores deficiencies in preventive measures, such as inadequate prevention for at-risk patients and unnecessary measures for low-risk individuals.