Characteristics of and Risk Factors for Medical Device-Related Pressure Injuries in Trauma Patients in Intensive Care Units: A Retrospective Case–Control Study

Abstract

Background:

Multiple medical devices are often required for the monitoring and treatment of trauma patients in intensive care units (ICUs), which increases the risk of medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs). Despite the increasing incidence of MDRPIs in critically ill patients, there has been insufficient research focusing specifically on trauma ICU populations in South Korea.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify the characteristics of and risk factors for MDRPIs in trauma ICU patients.

Methods:

This retrospective case–control study analyzed 755 trauma ICU patients, comprising 151 who developed MDRPI and 604 who did not develop MDRPI. Data including general, clinical, and trauma-related characteristics as well as details on medical device use were extracted from electronic medical records. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for MDRPIs.

Results:

The incidence of MDRPIs was 4.3%. Deep tissue pressure injuries (60.1%) and stage 2 (24.0%) were the most common, while the most common MDRPI locations were the heel (24.0%) and nose (17.5%). Significant risk factors identified included the use of a nasogastric tubes (odds ratio (OR) = 16.48), continuous renal replacement therapy (OR = 13.92), and the use of splints or casts (OR = 12.73).

Conclusions:

This study has identified unique characteristics of and risk factors for MDRPIs in trauma ICU patients, for whom the use of immobilization devices and nasogastric tubes is a major contributor to such injuries. This research study has provided important insights for developing targeted prevention strategies for MDRPIs in trauma ICU settings in South Korea.