Abstract
Objectives
This study aimed to examine the clinical progression of Stage 2, 3, and 4 pressure ulcers (PUs) in patients receiving palliative care, and to assess the psychosocial burden and burnout levels among their primary caregivers. Additionally, it sought to identify patient- and caregiver-related factors that may influence short-term mortality.
Methods
A total of 96 patients with advanced-stage PUs and their 96 primary caregivers were included in a study. The Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing (PUSH) was used to evaluate wound severity at baseline and at a 3-month follow-up. Caregiver burden and burnout were assessed using the Zarit Burden Interview and Maslach Burnout Inventory. Sociodemographic data were also collected. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictors of mortality.
Results
At the end of the 3-month follow-up, 35 patients (36.5%) survived, showing statistically significant improvement in PUSH scores (p < .05). Patient age was positively correlated with mortality. Additionally, a significant inverse relationship was found between caregiver “personal accomplishment” scores and patient mortality (p < .05), suggesting that caregivers with lower perceived competence were associated with higher patient death rates.
Conclusion
PUs in palliative care are associated with high mortality and complex care demands. The results emphasize the importance of caregiver psychological well-being in influencing patient outcomes. Multidisciplinary strategies that include both clinical wound management and structured psychosocial support for caregivers are essential to improve the quality of care and survival among this vulnerable population.
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