Factors associated with pressure ulcers in palliative home care

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.