Identification of the risk of developing pressure ulcers and preventive care for their occurrence in institutionalized older adults in northern Santander Identificación del riesgo de desarrollar úlceras por presión y cuidados preventivos de su ocurrencia, en adultos mayores institucionalizados de norte de Santander

Abstract

Introduction: Pressure ulcers (PU) are skin lesions produced by prolonged pressure or friction between two hard planes that produces a blood blockage and consequently tissue ischemia. The objective is to identify the risk of developing PUs and their preventive care in institutionalized older adults in Norte de Santander. Method: Cross-sectional descriptive study with 32 institutionalized older adults who
The Braden scale was applied. In addition, 9 caregivers were surveyed regarding their knowledge and preventive care for PUs. Results: A moderate risk of developing UPP was found (13.78%). The main factors that trigger them are the poor ability to walk and use a wheelchair (78.1%), the inability to make movements independently, with very limited mobility (53.1%), sensory perception and the ability to react to pressure-related discomfort (50.0%) and the level of skin exposure to moisture (46.9%). The majority of caregivers stated that they applied preventive care for PUs. Conclusions: There is a moderate risk of developing PUs in institutionalized older adults in Norte de Santander. The prevention of PUs must be based on the knowledge of responsible caregivers, therefore education regarding the subject is necessary.