Pressure Injuries in Aged Residential Care: 1 January 2016 to 31 March 2017

Pressure injuries are a major cause of harm, and evidence shows most pressure injuries are preventable. The effects of pressure injuries include pain, loss of function, reduced mobility, distress, prolonged treatment, infection and even death. Pressure injuries reduce the quality of life, delay recovery and have a significant impact on patients, their family/whānau and the health care system.

This publication looks at the information gathered during an audit of 528 aged residential care providers throughout New Zealand between 1 January 2016 and 31 March 2017. Aged residential care providers were the focus of this work, as those with decreased mobility and sensation are at greater risk of developing a pressure injury.

Auditors looked at the number and severity of pressure injuries and residents with multiple injuries and seven defined practice areas. This is the first piece of work of its kind undertaken by the Ministry. It is hoped by releasing this publication we can raise the profile of pressure injury prevention and management within the aged residential care sector.