Characteristics of patients who are admitted with or acquire Pressure Ulcers in a District General Hospital; a 3 year retrospective analysis

AIM: The study aimed to characterize demographic and clinical practice factors associated with community (CAPU) and hospital acquired pressure ulcers (HAPU). DESIGN: A comparative retrospective evaluation of pressure ulcer data, collected from a district general hospital. METHODS: Demographic and pressure ulcer related data were collected from patients at risk of developing a pressure ulcer, collated by a single observer using a standardized tool. Comparisons were made within and between patient groups (no PU, CAPU and HAPU). RESULTS: CAPU and HAPU patient groups were significantly (P < 0·001) older, had extended lengths of hospital stay and were less likely to be provided quickly with a pressure relieving support surface than those with no PU. HAPU patients had a longer length of stay and a higher proportion of heel PUs compared to CAPU.