What are pressure injuries and how do they occur?

Pressure injuries are among the most common healthcare injuries, causing significant suffering to those affected. Addressing the needs of patients with pressure injuries presents challenges in terms of time and costs for the health service.

Most pressure injuries can be prevented through early identification and the application of specific medical and nursing measures. Such measures encompass movement, pressure equalization, pressure relief, and positioning. Knowledge about pressure injuries is vital for healthcare professionals who work with patients and for decision-makers seeking information on resource optimization and health economics.

To prevent pressure injuries:

Understanding the root causes of pressure injuries is crucial for taking the right steps to prevent them. A pressure injury is damage to the skin or underlying tissue¹ resulting from cell deformation and/or ischemia².

Used mattresses can lead to added suffering and costs

The goal of a mattress inventory is to provide insights into the condition of the mattress stock and to formulate an action plan for managing mattresses. By regularly conducting mattress audits, organisations can strategically plan purchases and services, ensuring efficient operations.

1. Socialstyrelsen - Trycksår (2022) https://patientsakerhet.socialstyrelsen.se/risker-och-vardskador/vardskador/trycksar/ Hämtad 230426
2. European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel, National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel and Pan Pacific Pressure Injury Alliance. Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers/Injuries: Clinical Practice Guideline. The international Guideline. Emily Haesler (Ed.). EPUAP/NPIAP/PPPIA: 2019