Exploring nurses' perceptions of the use of assessment tools in pressure ulcer prevention in St. Vincent de Paul's Residence

Abstract

The aim of this small-scale descriptive study was to explore the nurses' perceptions about the use of assessment tools in pressure ulcer prevention in an elderly residential institution. A convenient sample was chosen to carry out this study and a response rate of 83% was achieved. Self-administered questionnaires were chosen as method of data collection. It contained both open- and closed-ended questions, thus data retrieved was both qualitative and quantitative. From the relevant nursing literature retrieved for the aim of this study, it was seen that there is a variety of assessment tools for pressure ulcer prevention, collectively known as risk assessment scales exist. A debate exists in the literature regarding the adherence of such tools in clinical practice. Adherence to risk assessment scale is mostly seen as dependent on the nurses' perceptions, which in turn are influenced by various factors, including levels of knowledge, proper validation techniques and familiarity with guidelines and protocols. Consequently, the present study attempts to understand the nurses' perceptions of risk assessment scales by exploring these dimensions. Additionally, participants were asked to state factors which inhibit and increase the use of risk assessment scales. Implications of pressure ulcer prevention were also explored in an attempt to understand better the level of knowledge the nurses had regarding this nursing task. The interpretation of the results showed that nurses recognized RASs as a systemic way of preventing pressure ulcer and few risk assessment scales were also mentioned. Despite this, it was noticed that low adherence rates were present, due to different perceptions. These perceptions were affected by different levels of knowledge, staffing techniques, multidisciplinary approach and adequate patient assessment and allocation to the wards. When asked about the implications of pressure ulcer prevention, the majority of respondents seemed to have a proper insight. Additionally, it was found that increased level of knowledge, both at under- and post- graduate level may increase the use of RASs in clinical practice.

With regards to the factors inhibiting their usage, lack of staff and traditional practices were the main theme identified. Other factors included lack of multidisciplinary approach and improper assessment of the older adult. The lack of national guidelines and protocols for pressure ulcer prevention also seemed to influence the nurses' perceptions. Finally, this study identified that nurses do acknowledged the use of RASs and their importance in clinical practice. It was also identified that nurses were knowledgeable regarding pressure ulcer prevention. Other areas identified included the need of having a standard set of guidelines and protocols that cover all local health care institutions.