Prevention Practice Differences Among Persons With Spinal Cord Injuries Who Rarely Versus Frequently Sustain Pressure Ulcers

Abstract

Pressure ulcers are common among people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and not only are costly to treat but also affect the quality of life of those affected by them. Despite a plethora of literature on prevention, there are few wellness studies focusing on the practices of people who do not develop pressure ulcers. This preliminary study sought to compare persons with spinal cord injury with consistent healthy skin histories to those with chronic pressure ulcer problems, focusing on behavioral habits of self-care. Data from 86 individuals 6 to 17 years postinjury were gathered by a mail and telephone survey investigating demographics and behavioral management lifestyle practices and factors attributed to success in preventing ulcers. Chi-square and follow-up analyses of variance indicated the group practices of those relatively ulcer free, who were female, were employed, weighed less, performed frequent pressure releases, experienced fewer ulcers during the first year, were less likely to smoke, consumed less alcohol, had fewer incontinence or moisture problems, had more sensation in the buttocks region, and were more physically active. Relevance to rehabilitation counselors in working with this population and addressing this debilitating problem is explored.