Lifestyle Changes and Pressure Ulcer Prevention in Adults With Spinal Cord Injury in the Pressure Ulcer Prevention Study Lifestyle Intervention

American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2015 · DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2015.012021 · Published: January 1, 2015

Simple Explanation

Pressure ulcers are a common issue for people with spinal cord injuries, impacting their overall well-being. Lifestyle choices can significantly influence the risk of developing these ulcers. This study looked at how lifestyle changes affected pressure ulcer development in adults with spinal cord injury who participated in a program focused on preventing these ulcers. The program involved weekly sessions and aimed to help participants make positive changes in their daily routines. The researchers found four main patterns: positive changes in ulcers with positive lifestyle changes, no change in ulcers despite positive changes, positive changes in ulcers with minor lifestyle changes, and no change in ulcers with no lifestyle changes. These patterns show the complex relationship between lifestyle and ulcer development.

Study Duration

12 Months

Participants

47 adults with SCI

Evidence Level

Level II, Randomized controlled trial, Secondary analysis

Key Findings

1
Positive PrU changes (e.g., healing and closing PrUs) accompanied by positive lifestyle and behavior changes.
2
Negative or no PrU changes accompanied by positive lifestyle and behavior changes.
3
Positive PrU changes accompanied by minor or no lifestyle or behavior changes.

Research Summary

This study explored the connection between lifestyle adjustments made during a pressure ulcer prevention program and the progression of pressure ulcers in individuals with spinal cord injuries. It identified four patterns linking lifestyle changes to pressure ulcer status. The majority of cases reviewed showed that adopting positive lifestyle and behavior changes led to an improvement in pressure ulcer status. However, some participants experienced no improvement despite making positive changes, often due to additional medical complications or other overwhelming circumstances. The study emphasizes the complexity of these relationships, highlighting the impact of external factors and the importance of addressing social determinants of health to support effective lifestyle changes for pressure ulcer prevention.

Practical Implications

Tailored Interventions

Occupational therapists should recognize the complex relationships between lifestyle factors and pressure ulcer development and tailor interventions accordingly.

Community-Based Approach

Community-based practice provides a valuable opportunity to address lifestyle and environmental factors comprehensively during intervention.

Holistic Assessment

Assess not only the physical aspects of PrU prevention but also the psychosocial and environmental factors influencing a client's ability to make lifestyle changes.

Study Limitations

1
The patterns identified may not be causative for PrU healing or lifestyle change.
2
Case study information was based on interveners’ notes and not collected ﬁrsthand by the authors.
3
The analysis investigated only participant characteristics, whereas the response to intervention ultimately rests not only on the participant, but also on the intervener’s skills.

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