Factors Affecting Medical Device-Related Pressure Injuries in Intensive Care Units

Abstract

Context: Medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPI) are a common complication that can occur in critically ill patients and require medical devices in the intensive care unit. MDRPI can occur when pressure from a medical device, such as a ventilator, catheter, or feeding tube, is exerted on the patient's skin for prolonged periods, causing tissue damage and leading to pressure injuries. MDRPI can result in pain, discomfort, prolonged hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Therefore, preventing and managing MDRPI in ICU patients is crucial to improving patient outcomes.

Aim: The study aimed to assess factors affecting medical devices related to pressure injury in intensive care units.

Methods: A descriptive and exploratory research design was employed to fulfill the objectives of this study. The study included two distinct samples: a purposive sample of 157 adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit and connected to various medical devices such as NGT, EET, CVC, UC, and CPAP masks, as well as a convenience sample of 50 nurses working in the intensive care unit who provided care to the same group of patients. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, nurses' practice observational checklists, patient assessment records, and medical device assessment records.

Results: The findings from this study reveal that 40% of the nurses under investigation demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge concerning Medical Device-Related Pressure Injuries (MDRPI). In comparison, 68.8% exhibited unsatisfactory practice in this area. Moreover, 56% of the nurses displayed a negative attitude towards factors associated with pressure injuries caused by medical devices in intensive care units. Concurrently, 58% of the patients in the study were found to have pressure injuries linked to medical devices, with 48% of these cases being attributed to CPAP masks. Furthermore, a highly significant statistical correlation was identified between the total knowledge scores of the nurses and their overall practice.

Conclusion: The current study's conclusions indicate that the highest percentage of the participating nurses possessed an average level of knowledge, displayed inadequate practice, and harbored negative attitudes regarding factors contributing to medical device-related pressure injuries in intensive care units. Consequently, it is recommended that an educational training program be implemented to enhance nurses' competence in preventing medical device-related pressure injuries in intensive care units.