PREVENTION OF PRESSURE INJURIES IN ADULT PATIENTS ADMITTED TO THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Abstract

Introduction: Pressure injuries (PI) represent a frequent and significant challenge in Intensive Care Units (ICU), affecting a considerable number of patients, especially those in critical condition and subjected to prolonged periods of immobility. These conditions, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, are areas of skin and underlying tissue damage caused by continuous and prolonged pressure on specific parts of the body. Objective: To identify the main challenges faced by nurses in the care of patients affected by pressure injuries in the ICU. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review with a quantitative approach, in which articles published over the last five years were analyzed from the LILACS, MEDLINE, BDENF-Nursing, and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases. Inclusion criteria were articles published within the last five years, while exclusion criteria included studies not related to the topic. Results: The findings showed that advanced age, comorbidities, length of hospital stay, and immobility increase the risk of PI. The use of the Braden Scale and preventive protocols proved effective in identifying patients at risk. Lack of training, work overload, and absence of continuous education were identified as barriers to preventive practices, highlighting the importance of permanent education and institutional strategies to improve care quality and reduce the incidence of PI. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of continuous professional training and the improvement of institutional protocols to ensure safer and more effective care. Moreover, prevention and proper management of PIs are essential measures to minimize complications and improve patients’ quality of life.