Study of prevalence of pressure ulcers in a University Hospital, Bogota-Colombia Estudio de prevalencia de lesiones por presión en un Hospital Universitario, Bogotá-Colombia

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of pressure ulcers in hospitalized patients, between September and November of 2016, in a University Hospital of Bogota, Colombia. Materials and methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study over a period of time, that used as an instrument a survey elaborated from the guidelines of the National Study and Assessment Group of Pressure Ulcers and Chronic Injuries GNEAUPP 2003. The collected data was obtained from medical records, nursing assessment and direct questions. Results: 40 patients with pressure ulcers were found in 282 beds, for a prevalence of 14.1%; the male sex is predominant with 67.5%; the ages range between 75 and 85 years old. 40% of the patients were hospitalized in internal medicine, the greatest proportion belonging to the subsidized regime (87.5%). The etiology of the injury was of 92% for pressure and 47.5% for humidity, with 30% classified in phases 1 and 2. 30% of the patients had more than two pressure ulcers, the most common location was the heel (30%). It is emphasized that there is a lack of knowledge about the use of hyper oxygenated fatty acids in special surfaces for the treatment of  the pressure. Conclusion: it is observed that the study is similar to other studies performed in the country. Also, it is perceived that data such as the characteristics of pressure ulcers, its etiology and the measures of prevention used in the institution, are the base for the general analysis of the phenomenon, since it allows to understand the behavior of the pressure ulcers in a national context. Similarly, these become a key factor that contribute to build a plan of comprehensive care as well as its implementation through educative measures that sensitize the health team about the safe care of the patient.