Cross sectional survey of patients with pressure ulcers in primary care settings in Northern Portugal.

Background Pressure injuries, commonly referred to as pressure ulcers (PUs) represent a localised damage to the skin and the underlying tissue due to the persistent application of pressure or pressure combined with shear. The aging demographic in developed countries and the rising incidence of chronic diseases calls for a concerted effort to enhance PU management. For that we need epidemiological studies to understand the magnitude of the problem, and they are scarce in the primary care settings. Aim The study aims to characterise the patients' suffering from PUs in our healthcare facilities, categorise the wounds based on their location, type, source of origin and duration of treatment. The information gathered will serve as a valuable reference point in devising strategies to enhance care and optimise cost saving. Methods This observational, non-randomised, cross-sectional study enrolled 54 primary care patients with PUs in the area covered by ACeS Póvoa de Varzim/Vila do Conde (ACeS PVVC), primary healthcare facility in Northern Portugal, conducted during the month of January of 2019. Results/ findings The study enrolled 54 patients, with a gender distribution of 35.2% males and 64.8% females. The mean age of participants was 82.63±9.92 years. Almost all 96.3% received their treatment at home, and 1.9% in the ambulatory (outpatient) setting. The mean number of pressure ulcers per patient was 1.47±0.73. A total of 29.6% presented with Stage II pressure ulcers, 29.6% with Stage III and 38.9% with Stage IV or unstageable. Conclusions/ implications for clinical practice The findings of this study serve as a catalyst for further discussion about the effective management of pressure ulcers at the organisational level. The development of effective strategies for assessment, prevention, and intervention for homecare patients requires a comprehensive understanding of the occurrence of pressure ulcers within the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]