Competence of Healthcare Employees in Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Care

Abstract

A pressure ulcer, from its inception, represents a multifaceted challenge, encompassing health, social, and financial dimensions, thereby deteriorating the patient’s overall quality of life. The mitigation of pressure ulcers commences with a methodical evaluation of the dermal condition of individuals deemed at considerable risk. This proactive approach includes vigilant skin care, the utilization of appropriately designed support surfaces, and the regular repositioning of affected patients. This investigation’s main aim is to assess the proficiency of healthcare personnel in pressure ulcer prevention and treatment within the inpatient context. This empirical study featured the participation of 115 healthcare practitioners employed at Nova Gorica General Hospital. The research instrument employed in this inquiry was an adapted questionnaire derived from the work of Pieper Zulkowski, which incorporated 83 items encompassing preventive strategies, wound characteristics, and wound stage categorization. The amassed data were subjected to statistical analysis using IBM SPSS version 29. The internal consistency reliability, as measured by Cronbach’s alpha, for the comprehensive questionnaire was proven at 0.913. However, it is unmistakably evident that a pressing need for continuous and systematic educational interventions concerning pressure ulcer management remains essential and indispensable for healthcare professionals.