Abstract

• In this prospective study, factors contributing to the development of decubitus ulcers were examined. Factors were identified by a literature review and a conceptual framework was developed. Regular observations were made during the subjects' hospitalization to determine the incidence of decubitus ulcers, and to assess other decubitus ulcer risk factors. Seventeen out of 146 admitted for neurological problems patients developed decubitus ulcers during the three month study period. There were no significant differences in the level of serum albumin, hemoglobin, hemoglobin or age between those who developed decubitus ulcers and those who did not. There also was no difference in incidence between patient who were paralyzed and those not paralyzed. Mean hospitalization days until decubitus ulcer development was 6.5 days. According to the results of discriminant analysis, four factors - 1) friction and shear, 2) sensory perceptual impairment, 3) low diastolic pressure, and 4) multiple use of sedative medications -predicted 84.93% of decubitus ulcer incidence.

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