ursing caregivers.
This research study moves from a review of relevant literature on pressure ulcer prediction and treatment/prevention practices to the development of a quasi-experimental research design employing a convenience of nursing staff at the New York Hospital of Queens and a survey instrument developed by the researcher. The purpose of the survey was to identify the perceptions of nursing caregivers regarding the causes of pressure ulcers, risk status among geriatric patients, and the efficacy of specific care activities and interventions.
Review of Literature
According to Livesley and Chow (2002), pressure ulcers are areas of necrosis caused by compression between bony prominences and external surfaces. The damage may be relatively minor, or it may lead to massive destruction of deeper tissues, which can cause significant morbidity and mortality. The incidence and prevalence of pressure ulcers depends on the definition of pressure ulcers used and the patient population studied. The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel has classified pressure ulcers according to 4 stages:
Stage I: Nonbalanchable erythema of intact skin.
Stage II: Partial-thickness skin loss involving the epidermis or dermis; lesions may present as an abrasion, blister, or superficial ulcer.
Stage III: Full-thickness skin loss that may extend to, but not through, the fascia; the ulcer may be undermined.
Stage IV: Full-thickness skin loss involving deeper structures, such as muscle, bone, or joint structures
Further, the decubitus or pressure ulcer is recognized as ôany lesion caused by unrelieved pressure resulting in damage to underlying tissue" (Chronakos & Nierman, 2003). Ayello (2003) stated that pressure ulcers are serious problems that occur frequently in hospitalized, community-dwelling and nursing home older adults, accounting for 3 to 11 percent in acute facilities and 24 percent in long-ter...