Paediatric pressure injuries - a review and recommendations for hospital providers.

OBJECTIVES

Paediatric pressure injuries (PIs) are a serious constellation of wounds that can lead to additional suffering, lifelong scarring, increased risk of infection, and high costs to the healthcare system. The prevalence of paediatric PI in an inpatient setting is 1.4% and can be as high as 43% in critical care units. The most common causes of paediatric PIs are associated with pressure from prolonged immobility and medical devices.

METHODS

A narrative literature review was conducted to survey the current state of paediatric PI management for the purpose of providing healthcare providers with updated insight into PI management.

RESULTS

Compared to the adult population, there are unique differences in paediatric anatomy and physiology depending on age and weight that can affect the aetiology and location of PIs. There has also been a development of tools to assess paediatric PIs. Prompt risk assessment within 8 hours following admission with a structured risk assessment tool, such as the Braden QD, followed by thorough skin assessments at regularly spaced intervals, will aid in the detection and treatment of PIs. The optimization of skin health and the use of medical devices are also key to the prevention of PIs.

CONCLUSION

This article reviews the unique differences of PIs in children and provides recommendations on prevention, care, and treatment.