Background: Studies have identified factors associated with pressure ulcers in many health
care settings including acute care, complex continuing care, long-term care, and home care.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with pressure ulcers
among palliative home care clients. Identifying associations specific to each setting is important
for ulcer prevention and has implications for clients overall well-being and quality
of life.
Methods: The study included all palliative home care clients diagnosed with terminal cancer
from one palliative home care agency in Ontario. Information on health was gathered using
the interRAI instrument for palliative care.
Results: The study found male gender, the inability to lie flat because of shortness of breath,
catheter, or ostomy care, and a reduced ability to perform activities of daily living to be associated
with pressure ulcers.
Significance of results: In some instances, treatment and prevention of pressure ulcers is the
primary goal of care. However, pressure ulcers are also suggestive of deterioration and considered
as a part of the disease trajectory. Sometimes the primary goal of care of treatment
and prevention is displaced by a greater need for comfort.
