The repositioning of hospitalized patients with reduced mobility: a prospective study

AIM: To determine the frequency of patient repositioning across three consecutive nursing shifts (day, evening and night) and to identify predictors of repositioning frequency. BACKGROUND: Patient repositioning is a frequently implemented pressure injury prevention strategy. Yet, little is known about how often it should be implemented, or the frequency of movement among hospitalized patients with reduced mobility. DESIGN: An observational prospective study. METHODS: Chart audits were used to gather clinical and demographic data. Semi‐structured observations were conducted every 30 minutes for a continuous 24‐hour period. Observational data included the patient's body position, the frequency of repositioning, assistance require to reposition and the use of support surfaces. RESULTS: Patients were repositioned frequently during the day and evening and least at night time. Elevation of the head of the bed (1–45°) was the most frequently adopted position. The independent predictors of repositioning frequency were age and gender, with older patients and males repositioned less frequently.