Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore risk factors for developing hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) among critically ill adult inpatients.
Background: Hospital-acquired pressure injuries remain a priority quality focus for Magnet ® organizations. Recent studies cite medical devices as a primary cause, yet published risk assessments lack inclusion of those threats.
Methods: Nurses at a 434-bed, 4-time Magnet ® -designated hospital led a retrospective study acros 9 American Nurses Credentialing Center-designated facilities. Using a chart review tool, data were collected within 48 hours of a confirmed HAPI.
Results: Of 207 HAPIs reported, 54% (n = 113) involved deep tissue pressure injuries and 50.2% (n = 104) involved 19 medical devices. Individuals with a HAPI also used 1 or more of 7 distinct types of mobility-limiting medical equipment.
Conclusions: Study findings support the development of a critical care risk assessment with inclusion of a medical device and mobility-limiting medical equipment as risk factors. A secondary study is underway for specificity and sensitivity testing of this assessment.
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